In this episode of the Happy Manifesto podcast, hosts Maureen and Henry converse with Vanessa King from Action for Happiness.

Vanessa is an expert in positive psychology and the author of The Ten Keys to Happier Living.

In this episode, Vanessa discusses the active pursuit of happiness, distinguishing between short-term pleasure and long-term fulfilment. Vanessa shares the importance of making connections, gratitude, and psychological safety in the workplace. We also discuss practical strategies for enhancing well-being, such as fostering positive mental habits and creating supportive work environments.

Vanessa's insights offer actionable steps toward cultivating happiness in both personal and professional spheres.

Vanessa's tips for a happy workplace:

• Realise there is a business case for happiness
• Invest in connecting with people in person and building relationships offline
• Find individual focus time
• Invest in training, processes, and culture

Links and resources mentioned in this episode:

Vanessa's Book The Ten Keys to Happier Living

Can organisations gain a strategic advantage by investing in their employees?

Stephan Meier, a Columbia Business School professor, and author of The Employee Advantage, shares, in this episode, the relationship between employee motivation, organisational culture, and profitability.

Stephan reveals that organisations prioritising employee well-being, ones that align with their core values, foster ethical behaviour and a positive work environment that benefits all with profitability and increased job satisfaction.

Hear Stephan share examples from companies like ING and Zappos, highlighting the benefits of an employee-centric approach. You'll also hear outlines for four key motivators: purpose, autonomy, competence, and relatedness, that drive employee engagement and satisfaction.

Stephan's tips for a happy workplace:

• Listen to employees and engage with them
• Trust what comes your way
• Be very intentional

Links and resources mentioned in this episode:

Stephan's Lego brick-by-brick videos

And here is Stephan's story of why he does them on YouTube

Kelly McGovern is the Chief Nurse at the West Hertfordshire Foundation Trust

In this episode, Kelly shares how she has fostered a transformative culture of trust and empowerment in a healthcare environment.

Kelly shares her leadership journey, highlighting the importance of empowering staff to drive change and celebrate small wins.

She recounts how her hands-on approach and role modeling have led to significant improvements in patient care, such as reduced waiting times and better discharge rates.

The conversation reveals the positive impact of a supportive work environment and the importance of breaking outdated rules toward fostering innovation and collaboration in healthcare.