Happier At Work®

Are you worried about being an ineffective leader?In this week's episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Debra Corey, a dynamic speaker and expert in the field of employee engagement and HR. Debra opened up a discussion about power dynamics at work, particularly focusing on the concept of hoarding information. She explained how hoarding information can be a power play, with individuals deliberately withholding knowledge and positioning themselves as gatekeepers. The negative impact of this behaviour on colleagues and overall team morale cannot be underestimated. During our conversation, Debra highlighted the importance of distinguishing between different types of bosses. On one hand, there are those who simply don't care about the harm they may cause to their team members. On the other hand, there are well-intentioned bosses who may be unaware of the negative impact they have on others. Debra shared personal experiences of working with terrible bosses who fell into both categories. To tackle this issue, Debra suggested the importance of educating people on being great bosses and fostering self-awareness. It's essential for individuals to understand the impact they have on their team and to create an environment where open and honest feedback is encouraged. Debra mentioned that sometimes people may be afraid to give direct feedback, and it got us thinking about how we can create a safe space for such conversations. One fascinating point Debra brought up was the power of humour in diffusing tense situations. She believed that humour could play a role in turning a difficult situation into something that can be laughed about and learned from. We couldn't agree more - finding ways to bring lightness into our work lives can make a significant difference in our overall happiness. In addition, Debra stressed the importance of setting clear expectations and practising effective communication. This includes being transparent about the time required for tasks and projects, as well as the level of quality expected. By reducing ambiguity, we can avoid confusion, overdelivering, or unnecessary stress. She also mentioned her upcoming book, in which she interviews 24 thought leaders to gain even more insights into workplace dynamics. We can't wait to get our hands on it and learn from her valuable findings.The main points throughout this podcast include:The negative impact of hoarding informationDistinguishing between different types of bossesThe importance of educating people on being great bosses and fostering self-awarenessThe power of humour in diffusing tense situationsSetting clear expectations and practising effective communication Connect with DebraWebsite www.debcohr.com LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/debracorey Twitter https://twitter.com/debracoreyrebel Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

How do you create more significance in your work? In this episode of Happier at Work, host Aoife O'Brien welcomes Zach Mercurio, a renowned expert in organisational purpose, meaningful work, and leadership. Zach shares his deep insights on how to find purpose and meaning in the workplace and create a work environment that brings out the best in everyone.Zach's passion for values-driven leadership shines through as he highlights the importance of optimising interactions and equipping leaders to create meaningfulness, safety, availability, and support. He encourages us to shift our focus from short-term solutions like signing bonuses to the leading indicators that truly drive employee engagement and retention.During the conversation, Zach unveils his personal journey, transitioning from working in higher education to becoming a sought-after speaker, consultant, and researcher in the field of meaningful work. His work at the Center for Meaning and Purpose at Colorado State University enabled him to study the essence of finding purpose and significance in both work and life.The key points:The difference between purpose and meaningfulnessRecognising our own significance Taking responsibility for fulfilling our unique purposeCreating a culture of care that fosters growth, engagement, and successRecognizing and affirming the unique contributions of each individualFostering an environment where everyone feels valued, seen, and heardIntrigued? Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Tune in to Happier at Work today and discover how unleashing purpose and meaning can lead to greater happiness and fulfilment in your work life.Previous episodes:Previous episodes:174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr Lola Gershfeldhttps://happieratwork.ie/174-the-role-of-emotions-in-workplace-dynamics-with-dr-lola-gershfeld/ 136: Excel in your zone of genius with Ian Hattonhttps://happieratwork.ie/136-excel-in-your-zone-of-genius-with-ian-hatton/ Thank you for being part of our vibrant community, and as always, please feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for future episodes. We love hearing from you! Connect with ZachLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio Twitter https://twitter.com/zachmercurio Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zachmercurio YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/@zachmercurio  Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

First, we want to express our deep gratitude to each and every one of you for helping us reach a major milestone - 100,000 listens/ downloads! It's all thanks to your support, feedback, and engagement that we've reached this incredible achievement. We truly appreciate your dedication, and we promise to continue bringing you valuable content and insights to help you be happier at work.In the last episode, we mentioned a survey we conducted to better understand your preferences and make positive changes to the podcast. We're grateful to those of you who have already taken the time to fill it out. If you haven't had a chance yet, we kindly request your input. Your feedback will shape the future of the podcast, ensuring we address your specific challenges, answer your burning questions, and provide the content you need to thrive in your career.https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9RLXFY7 Now, let's dive into some thought-provoking book recommendations from our host, Aoife. She recently read "The No Asshole Rule" by Robert Sutton, which delves into the impact of toxic behaviour in the workplace. While we must warn you of some ‘spicy’ language in the book, its main message is essential. We all have the potential to be assholes in certain environments, but we can actively work to create positive work cultures and stamp out disrespectful behaviour. Aoife shares personal experiences and takeaways, shedding light on the importance of addressing these issues head-on. If you've ever felt mistreated or experienced workplace bullying, this book might offer some valuable insights.Another book that caught Aoife's attention is "It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work" by Jason Fried. With a title that speaks for itself, this book challenges conventional business practices and offers alternative perspectives on success. From fixed pricing for everyone to rejecting quarterly targets, Jason Fried presents a refreshing approach to creating a sustainable, fulfilling work environment. If you're tired of the stress and chaos that often dominate workplaces, this book might provide a fresh perspective and help you find ways to create a healthier work-life balance.We hope these book recommendations pique your interest and provide valuable insights for your professional journey. Remember, knowledge is power, and investing in personal growth can make a world of difference in your work experience.In addition to sharing these book recommendations, we'd love to hear from you! If you have any burning questions or specific challenges related to your career or work culture, please reach out. We're always excited to bring listener questions to our episodes and provide the most relevant and valuable advice possible.Thank you once again for your unwavering support and for being part of the Happier at Work community. We're here for you, and we're dedicated to helping you thrive in your professional life.Please feel free to reach out directly to Aoife at aoife@happieratwork.ie to share your insights or request further information.Resources:The No asshole Rule: https://www.amazon.com/Asshole-Rule-Civilized-Workplace-Surviving/dp/1600245854 It Doesn’t Have to be Crazy at Work: https://www.amazon.com/Doesnt-Have-Be-Crazy-Work/dp/0062874780 Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

How do you make flexibility work for you?  In today’s episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien is joined by Molly Johnson-Jones, founder of Flexa. Molly shares her experiences and thoughts on the topic of flexibility at work, a subject that has been gaining momentum and transforming the way we approach work-life balance. Molly's take on flexibility revolves around the idea of setting boundaries and finding the perfect balance between work and personal life. She highlighted the importance of creating a flexible work environment that allows individuals to thrive by adapting their schedules to meet their individual needs.One key aspect Molly touches upon was the misconception that flexibility means constantly being available or working longer hours. She emphasised the need for intentional planning and embracing the freedom to take time off when work is complete, rather than searching for unnecessary tasks to fill the day. Taking personal time and rejuvenating is just as important as being productive during work hours.Molly also discusses the varying perspectives on flexibility among different generations. As millennials continue moving into leadership roles, she predicts a higher rate of acceptance and adoption of remote work practices. However, fear of the unknown and the traditional face-to-face interactions valued by older generations can still influence the desire to return to the office.Molly sheds light on the challenges faced by larger corporations in implementing organisational transformations due to their size. However, she stressed the importance of flexibility in attracting diverse talent and improving engagement and productivity. By being transparent about their flexible work offerings, companies can drive change and pioneer new approaches that meet the needs of their employees.The main points throughout this podcast include:- creating clear expectations and boundaries- the need for effective communication regarding availability and online presence - the consequences for not meeting performance expectations- intentional management and self-awareness- adapting work styles to fit individual preferences- finding productive environments that suit each person's needs- asking employees how they prefer to be managed and tailoring leadership styles accordingly Connect with MollyMolly’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/ Flexa’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/flexa-careers/ Flexa’s Twitter https://twitter.com/Flexa_Careers Flexa’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/flexa_careers/ Flexa’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@flexa_careers Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

Do you ever feel like you have so much more to offer at work? You're not alone! Join me as we dive into the world of finding fulfilment in our careers.My guest Soma Ghosh, a Career Advisor and expert in empowering individuals to unlock their true potential in the workplace, joins host Aoife O’Brien on today’s episode of the Happier at Work podcast.We discuss the concept of fulfilling our potential. Soma reflects on the societal pressure to have everything figured out by a certain age or milestone and emphasises that it's never too late to discover our true passions and talents. She encourages listeners to take chances, even if it means learning from experiences that may not be a perfect fit.The episode also touches on the importance of employees being provided with opportunities for growth and development at work. Soma highlights the frustration that arises when individuals feel like they are not given access to training courses or resources that would enable their personal and career growth. Soma shares how the focus of jobseekers has shifted in recent years, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, towards prioritising fulfilment and happiness at work. Fulfilment in the workplace extends beyond just loving what we do; it encompasses the social aspect, personal growth, and aligning our values with our desired path.Soma also touches on the topic of imposter syndrome and its impact on our confidence and happiness at work. She delves into the factors that can trigger imposter syndrome, such as organisational changes and the departure of beloved managers, and how imposter syndrome can be exacerbated by different leadership styles and critical feedback.The main points throughout this podcast include:- the societal pressure to have everything figured out by a certain age or milestone- the importance of employees being provided with opportunities for growth and development at work- prioritising fulfilment and happiness at work- importance of creating a supportive and inclusive work environment- managers’ need to prioritise their own development and training.- importance of seeking support and asking questions- taking responsibility for our personal development Connect with SomaWebsite: https://www.somaghosh.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soma-ghosh-26086638/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_careerhappinessmentor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgcareers27 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIIKrtgeE_Cpf28VV1Jp5RQ Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

Have you ever found yourself sticking to a decision solely because of the time, energy, or money you've invested in it? Janine Esbrand expertly discusses the dangers of the “sunk cost fallacy” and how it can hinder our progress at work. She reminds us that it's essential to choose what we do each day based on the present moment, rather than being tethered to past investments. So go ahead and give yourself permission to pivot when necessary!Janine also offers invaluable advice for lawyers (and professionals from all walks of life) on leveraging transferable skills and transforming everyday language into professional communication. From turning down work gracefully to streamlining email communication, she walks us through practical strategies that can make a real impact on our professional reputation.Janine stressed the importance of mindful time management and measuring productivity based on completed priority tasks rather than mere busyness. Discover your energy peaks and dips throughout the day, and use that self-awareness to optimise your work schedule and align it with your priorities.The main points throughout this podcast include:- the importance of recognising your transferable skills- a smarter, better approach to time management- using a 90-day plan to set strategic career goals and check for alignment- prioritising personal and professional growth- saying “no” effectively to things not on your priority list- tips for overcoming imposter syndrome Connect with JanineWebsite: https://careerchangemakers.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janineesbrandInstagram: https://instagram.com/careerchangemakers Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

Do you want to build better relationships at work and have a positive team culture?Link to survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9RLXFY7 In our latest solo episode, host Aoife O'Brien dives into the topic of relationships at work and their significance in shaping our workplace satisfaction. She explores how positive relationships can lead to better teamwork, increased productivity, and reduced stress levels.Aoife emphasises the importance of identifying a person with whom you'd like to improve your relationship at work. It could be a colleague, boss, or senior leader. By focusing on building a better connection with this individual, you can create a positive impact on your overall work experience.The episode goes on to discuss common obstacles that hinder positive relationships, including emotions, over- or under-functioning, and differences in communication styles. Aoife explores practical steps to overcome these challenges, such as understanding different personalities, adapting your communication style, and considering the intentions behind others' behaviour.If you'd like to dive deeper into the topics discussed in this episode, we have provided links to related episodes and resources within the show notes. Additionally, Aoife encourages you to share your thoughts and feedback on the changes we're planning for the Happier at Work podcast. Your input is crucial to ensure we continue to deliver valuable content that resonates with you. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9RLXFY7 We truly appreciate your ongoing support and engagement with the Happier at Work podcast. Please feel free to reach out directly to Aoife at aoife@happieratwork.ie to share your insights or request further information. Resources:- Episode with Dr. Lola Gershfeld on emotions and attachment dynamics - https://happieratwork.ie/174-the-role-of-emotions-in-workplace-dynamics-with-dr-lola-gershfeld/- Episode with Morra Aarons Mele (The Anxious Achiever) on over- or under functioning https://happieratwork.ie/166-the-anxious-achiever-with-morra-aarons-mele/- Episode with Nausheen Saumtally on DISC profiling https://happieratwork.ie/58-happier-at-work-disc-behavioural-assessment-and-life-harmony-with-nausheen-saumtally/- Book recommendation: "Surrounded by Idiots" on understanding different communication styles and personality differences https://amzn.to/46Gp9FP Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

Do you want to work less and still get more done? This episode is for you! In this week's episode of the Happier at Work® podcast, my guest is Alex Pang, Director of Programs at 4 Day Week Global. We discuss the increasingly important topic of work sustainability and finding a better work-life balance. Alex brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, drawing on his background as a technology forecaster and futurist. In this episode, we delve into the detrimental effects of overworking, societal pressures, and the fear of missing out on success. Overworking and prioritising professional success over personal life has become an all-too-common issue plaguing our society. Although overworking may feel rewarding in the moment, it ultimately has detrimental effects on our long-term well-being. The fear of missing out on success and societal pressure fuel this problem, making it difficult to strike a healthy work-life balance.As we collectively seek work-life balance and sustainable work practices, let us remember that change starts with each one of us. By joining forces and finding common solutions, we can create happier and more fulfilling workplaces where everyone thrives.The main points throughout this podcast include:- the difference between perceived productivity and actual productivity,- a smarter, better approach to work that benefits both individuals and organisations- practical steps to reduce distractions, incorporate rest into the workday, and implement effective work habits- busyness does not equate to effectiveness- the importance of making time for thinking- rest and its role in developing and sharpening our physical and mental abilities- successfully implementing a 4-day workweek Connect with Alex Pang:Strategy+Rest: https://www.strategy.rest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/askpang Twitter: https://twitter.com/askpang Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askpang Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

Have you ever been hijacked by your emotions at work? Or stopped to consider the importance of how our emotions shape our experience at work? In this week's episode of the Happier at Work® podcast, my guest is Dr Lola Gershfeld, founder of EmC Leaders, sheds light on the importance of understanding our emotions and attachment styles, and their impact on our workplace relationships. Her unique process helps teams build cohesive interactions, culture, and relationships in the workplace. By teaching techniques such as bonding conversations, sharing emotions, and identifying automatic thoughts, we can restructure our interactions to create a more secure bond.Emotional engagement is a crucial aspect of our lives, and it has a significant impact on our overall happiness and productivity at work. Recognising and addressing emotions in the workplace is essential for creating a positive and harmonious work environment.During my conversation with Dr. Gershfeld, we explored how failing to talk about emotions hinders our ability to connect with others and can lead to negative cycles of blame and complaint. The root cause of conflict is not necessarily differences in strategy or agenda; it's how we communicate and address each other's attachment needs and fears that flare up.Dr. Gershfeld emphasised the importance of being comfortable with sharing emotions and creating an environment where it is safe to do so. Empathy plays a crucial role in understanding that people are struggling for connection. Recognising the cues of blaming, pointing, and shutting down can help us identify when someone is struggling for connection.Our discussion also touched upon attachment theory and its implications for both personal and work relationships. It's fascinating to consider how attachment styles, shaped by our childhood experiences, can manifest in our adult interactions. Feeling secure in a relationship reduces the likelihood of triggering anxious or avoidant responses.The main points throughout this podcast include:- Attachment theory and how it relates to workplace dynamics- Our brain structure and its role in regulating our thoughts and emotions- We are wired for connection, disconnection leads to anxiety and pursuit, or avoidance and withdrawal- Asking the question “are you there for me?” Are you accessible, responsible and engaged?- How our emotions impact on our relationship with our manager- What triggers us at work - from facial expressions to certain phrases- Our three primary fears - self, other, relationship Connect with Dr Lola Gershfeld:Website: https://www.emcleaders.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lolagershfeld/Company LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/emcleadersInstagram: https://instagram.com/emcleaders/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/emcleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@emcleaders6359 Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

No matter how much you progress in your career, do you still feel like there must be something more out there? In this week's episode of the Happier at Work® podcast, we welcome a special guest, Brian Aquart, who shares his insights and experiences regarding the "great resignation" phenomenon that many have observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brian, a former employment law specialist turned healthcare industry professional, offers a unique perspective on why people are leaving their jobs and embarking on new paths.Brian introduces us to his podcast, "Why I Left," where he provides a platform for individuals to share their personal journeys of leaving stable jobs during these unprecedented times. The motivation behind their decisions ranges from a desire for alignment with personal values and aspirations, to pursuing passion projects and side hustles that foster personal growth and fulfilment.The pandemic has forced many individuals to reflect on their career choices and evaluate if their current jobs truly bring them happiness and purpose. Brian emphasises that being happier at work goes beyond financial considerations, challenging the notion that money is the sole indicator of success. Instead, he urges us to consider the impact we have on the world and the kind of impact we want to make.Through his own work in healthcare, Brian has found fulfilment by focusing on initiatives that positively impact lives, such as working with students and exposing them to opportunities in the healthcare industry. He reminds us that finding something we genuinely love to do and feel passionate about, coupled with making a difference in our chosen field, is key to experiencing happiness in our careers. The main points throughout this podcast include:- Personal stories from career changers, the main reasons people left stable jobs during the pandemic- We don’t talk enough about job resignations, and what we can learn from the process- How money is not purpose, and people want to have an impact through their work- When you reach a certain level and think “is this all there is?”- How to create more opportunities for yourself- What companies should be offering to employees to prevent resignations Connect with Brian Aquart:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianaquart/ https://www.WhyILeft.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/why-i-left/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialwhyileft/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-i-left/id1613667100YouTube Channel Linkhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgQI4X0kEp8-o7Z9D3tRmg Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA