Harvard University published a study recently, siting that the unhappiest jobs in the world are also the loneliest ones. Jobs in which employees do not get to work with a team, build meaningful relationships with co-workers or require human interaction are the most unhappy ones, says the 85 yearlong study involving 700 participants from all over the world. Since 1938, the team looked into the lives of their 700 test subjects, who were asked detailed questions about happiness, health, leading a long life, money, healthy diets and professional success, at two-year intervals.
Robert Waldinger (MD), professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, says that the secret to a functional work life balance is team work, something he says has been known all along. He also states that team work is not just necessary for that but also to keep the morale of employees high, calling it a critical social need that should be met in all aspects of life. He also pointed out that positive work relationships reduce stress. A deeper connection with co-workers allows people to be satisfied with their jobs and work more efficiently according to his analysis.
Waldinger added that it was essential for employers and employees to build a cohesive environment based on working together and supporting each other. Conversely, animosity in the work place would affect, not just the parties involved but also the entire work force on the whole. Something that should be avoided in the interest of productivity and promoting the over all well being of employees and employers alike. The study also mentions that it is essential to develop a clear chain of command and communication. One that is based on good communication and a top-down distribution of accountability. The study also highlights the importance of limiting micro-management, something that has become a regular feature of many work places. Instead, it is beneficial to compartmentalize work for an efficient, effective and productive work environment.
Missed 'A Grammy Salute to the Beach Boys' streaming? When & where to watch the repeat telecast?
The study concluded by stating that such positive changes in a work environment have long reaching effects on the over all well being of employees. It helps them lead stress free lives that extend to their personal space as well. This leads to healthier relationships at home and amongst friend circles, significantly improving their over-all quality of life.