In workplaces around the world, success is frequently considered as the path to happiness; achieve the goal, and fulfilment will follow. However, decades of research by Sonja Lyubomirsky, Laura King, and Ed Diener tell a different story. Their major meta-analysis, which included over 200 studies, revealed a consistent pattern: people who experience frequent pleasant emotions are more successful in jobs, relationships, health, and personal development.

Rethinking Success and Happiness

Traditionally, we have been trained to prioritise success - a promotion, a financial milestone, a finished project - with happiness as the reward. However, positive psychology research reveals that happiness is the stimulus for achievement rather than a byproduct.

Lyubomirsky and colleagues discovered that happy emotions boost motivation, energy, and cognitive flexibility. Happy people think more creatively, interact more effectively, and recover faster from stress. This rising spiral leads to improved performance and enjoyment in many areas of life.

The Role of Positive Emotion in Human Flourishing

Positive emotion broadens our thoughts and actions. When we are grateful, joyful, or inspired, our thoughts open to new possibilities. This is the basis for Barbara Fredrickson's Broaden and Build Theory, which demonstrates that positivity generates psychological and social resources that improve long-term well-being.

This translates into better problem-solving, stronger connections, and greater adaptability in the workplace. Leaders who promote optimism foster environments of trust and psychological safety in which people feel empowered to give their all.

Happiness as a Strategic Advantage

Sonja Lyubomirsky, Laura King, and Ed Diener (Psychological Bulletin, 2005) found that happiness preceded success in a variety of dimensions, including work, health, relationships, and community. In organisational settings, this indicates that a positive culture drives quantitative performance. Teams that regularly experience good emotions have higher levels of engagement, lower absenteeism, and increased innovation. 

Happiness, as Lyubomirsky and others underlined, serves as both an input and an endpoint - a critical resource for individuals and organisations to thrive

Our next blog will explore how leaders can turn this science into strategy - practical ways to embed positivity through strengths, recognition, and evidence-based wellbeing measurement.

Langley Group’s evidence-based accreditations empower practitioners and leaders to apply this science confidently. The Work on Wellbeing Accreditation (Tuesday 18 November) enables you to measure and improve wellbeing using a scientifically validated diagnostic tool. Complement this with Strengths Profile Accreditation (Monday 17 November) to strengthen recognition, belonging, and engagement in teams. 

Explore how our science-backed courses and tools can support you or your team to flourish. Whether you are starting your journey or deepening your expertise, Langley Group is here to help you thrive.

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