Happier At Work®

How can you cultivate a happier and more fulfilled workplace?In this episode of Happier at Work podcast I had the pleasure to be joined by Jude Sclater, executive coach and author, exploring the importance of psychological safety, working to one's strengths, and the nuanced journey of career changes. We delve into how managers can shift from problem solvers to enablers, allowing their teams to flourish through coaching techniques. Jude shares her unique career transition from auditing to coaching, highlighting skill transferability and the joys of helping others achieve clarity at work.Our discussion also covers the significance of reflection, with Jude advocating for incorporating simple check-ins into weekly routines, and the transformative power of asking the right questions for effective leadership. Jude shares practical insights for managers to cultivate a supportive culture that fosters growth and engagement.The main points include:The critical role of psychological safety and strong leadership in happiness at work.Jude Sclater's career journey, illustrating skill transferability and personal growth.The benefits of managers adopting coaching techniques, enhancing team confidence and problem-solving skills.Practical strategies for incorporating reflection into routines to drive improvement.Insights on effective managerial feedback and the significance of communication.The importance of building strong peer networks for manager support.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 JudeLinkedInInstagramJude's BlogConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 68: Embracing the Gentle Art of Humble Inquiry with Edgar and Peter ScheinEpisode 104: The Managers Dilemma with Irial O’FarrellEpisode 182: Building Better Bosses with Debra Corey

Are you looking to reflect on the growth and changes in workplace culture over the past year?In this special episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I bring us on a journey through some of the most impactful episodes of 2024. As part of the 2024 Recap, I highlight the key insights and advice shared by esteemed guests Jordana Confino, Caroline Collins, Ronan Gallagher, Fay Wallis, and Lucy Gernon. Each of these episodes delves into transformative concepts, from understanding the roots of perfectionism to leveraging the power of effective networking.I reflect on personal anecdotes and the invaluable lessons gleaned from each guest, giving you a chance to revisit these crucial moments. Whether it's fostering a positive workplace culture, understanding personality drivers with the enneagram, or honing one's networking skills, this recap is packed with the wisdom to kickstart personal and professional growth in the new year.The main points include:Insights into overcoming perfectionism with Jordana Confino, focusing on societal pressures and psychological roots.Caroline Collins shares the significance of creating a positive workplace culture and effective change management strategies.Ronan Gallagher discusses the application of the enneagram in understanding workplace dynamics and personality types.Faye Wallis dismantles networking myths and offers practical advice on building meaningful professional connections.Lucy Gernon highlights the importance of prioritising outcomes-based work and strategic time management for leaders.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:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Networking with Fay WallisPerfectionism with Jordana ConfinoPositive workplace culture with Caroline CollinsBoundaries with Lucy GernonPersonality Types with Ronan Gallagher

This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Araceli Higueras.The main points include:Strategies to combat "analysis paralysis" by adjusting thought processes over gathering excessive information.The significance of personal connections, trust, autonomy, and creative input in achieving workplace happiness.Respecting individual career goals and understanding the different phases in one's career journey.Techniques to uncover personal career aspirations through reflection and values exercises.Benefits of group workshops that focus on self-awareness, networking, and strategic goal setting.The importance of lifelong learning and integrating new skills, as personal growth contributes to career satisfaction.Encouragement for broadening career perspectives to include lateral moves and personal ventures.Ara's balanced approach to exploring multiple income streams and integrating career with personal life.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 AraLinkedInInstagramAra's BookConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 42: Casey Ryals on Leading Yourself First

How can you overcome "analysis paralysis" and empower yourself with self-leadership?In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with Araceli Higueras, a seasoned coach and business professional, to delve into the world of decision-making and self-leadership. Ara shares her unique approach to circumventing "analysis paralysis" by encouraging individuals to evolve their thought processes, rather than seeking exhaustive information before acting. We explore the pivotal role of values in decision-making and how fostering personal connections, trust, and creative autonomy can lead to greater happiness at work.Throughout our discussion, Ara emphasises respecting the multifaceted nature of life and career ambitions. She introduces techniques to help individuals discover what they truly want, facilitating workshops that are rich in group learning and accountability. This episode offers an enlightening perspective on self-empowerment and the transformative power of aligning professional ventures with personal fulfillment.The main points include:Strategies to combat "analysis paralysis" by adjusting thought processes over gathering excessive information.The significance of personal connections, trust, autonomy, and creative input in achieving workplace happiness.Respecting individual career goals and understanding the different phases in one's career journey.Techniques to uncover personal career aspirations through reflection and values exercises.Benefits of group workshops that focus on self-awareness, networking, and strategic goal setting.The importance of lifelong learning and integrating new skills, as personal growth contributes to career satisfaction.Encouragement for broadening career perspectives to include lateral moves and personal ventures.Ara's balanced approach to exploring multiple income streams and integrating career with personal life.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 AraLinkedInInstagramAra's BookConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 42: Casey Ryals on Leading Yourself First

This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Maggie Jackson.The main points include:Understanding the two main types of uncertainty: aleatory (external) and epistemic (internal).How uncertainty, dubbed "wisdom in motion," can enhance focus and receptiveness.Embracing uncertainty for strategic advantage in high-stakes situations.Encouraging a questioning mindset within teams to drive innovation.Improving tolerance for uncertainty through simple, everyday exercises.Leadership strategies for leveraging uncertainty productively.Highlighting the significance of individual differences in tolerance for uncertainty.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 MaggieWebsiteLinkedInMaggie’s BookConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham

Are you ready to harness the power of uncertainty for success?In this captivating episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had a thought-provoking conversation with Maggie Jackson, an accomplished journalist and author. Maggie delves into her exploration of uncertainty, offering a compelling perspective on how embracing the unknown can lead to growth and innovation both in the workplace and beyond. With her insights, she challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the dynamic advantages of uncertainty as a driver for cognitive improvement, strategic flexibility, and progressive leadership.Maggie distinguishes between different types of uncertainty and explains how leaders and teams can leverage this often misunderstood concept to enhance decision-making, communication, and adaptability. She provides both theoretical insights and practical examples, revealing that uncertainty, when wielded effectively, fosters a collaborative environment that is ripe for creativity and productivity.The main points include:Understanding the two main types of uncertainty: aleatory (external) and epistemic (internal).How uncertainty, dubbed "wisdom in motion," can enhance focus and receptiveness.Embracing uncertainty for strategic advantage in high-stakes situations.Encouraging a questioning mindset within teams to drive innovation.Improving tolerance for uncertainty through simple, everyday exercises.Leadership strategies for leveraging uncertainty productively.Highlighting the significance of individual differences in tolerance for uncertainty.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 MaggieWebsiteLinkedInMaggie’s BookConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham

In this latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delve deep into the challenges of career management and development. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, I discuss everything from feeling bored and unchallenged to dealing with toxic bosses and mismatches in your career. If you're seeking ways to overcome career stagnation and engage more passionately with your work, this episode is definitely for you.I talk about personal stories and practical strategies to help you identify the root causes of career stagnation and suggest steps you can take to reignite your career momentum. With a focus on understanding your own values, strengths, and goals, this episode is a timely guide for anyone considering a career refresh as the new year approaches.The main points:Understanding the feelings and signs of being stuck in your career.Strategies for reassessing your values, skills, and alignment with your role.Exploring options for pivoting within or outside your current organisation.The importance of investing in yourself through skills development, coaching, or mentorship.Building a supportive network to discover new opportunities and gain insights.Taking small, low-risk steps to build confidence and momentum.Creating an actionable career plan to set clear goals and commit to your professional journey.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:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 82: Creating a Better Workday with Niamh BradyEpisode 234: From Overwhelm to Intentional Fulfilment with Cherylanne Skolnicki

This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Cherylanne Skolnicki.The main points include:The correlation between personality types and emotional barriers like guilt, FOMO, judgment, and control.The concept of reframing "have to do" tasks as "get to do" ones for empowerment.The metaphor of daily tasks as a "conveyor belt" and the power of choosing them as a "buffet."The significance of self-awareness in aligning life choices with personal values.The need to manage emotions to maintain momentum and prevent being overwhelmed.Emphasising balance as a mix of tasks rather than merely achieving work-life equilibrium.The courage required to articulate and pursue one's authentic desires free from societal expectations.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 CherylanneFacebookPersonal InstagramCompany InstagramLinkedInConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon

Are you ready to redefine your work-life balance and live authentically?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I engaged in a compelling discussion with Cherylanne Skolnicki, founder and leader of Brilliant Balance. Cherylanne, a seasoned proponent for empowering professional women, delves deep into the complexities of balancing work and life. She shares insights into personality types and their relation to emotional barriers like guilt, FOMO, and control, offering a fresh perspective on achieving a full and fulfilling life. The episode underscores the importance of aligning daily actions with personal priorities and values, encouraging listeners to view life changes as experiments that can lead to true happiness both in and out of the workplace.The main points include:The correlation between personality types and emotional barriers like guilt, FOMO, judgment, and control.The concept of reframing "have to do" tasks as "get to do" ones for empowerment.The metaphor of daily tasks as a "conveyor belt" and the power of choosing them as a "buffet."The significance of self-awareness in aligning life choices with personal values.The need to manage emotions to maintain momentum and prevent being overwhelmed.Emphasising balance as a mix of tasks rather than merely achieving work-life equilibrium.The courage required to articulate and pursue one's authentic desires free from societal expectations.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 CherylanneFacebookPersonal InstagramCompany InstagramLinkedInConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon

This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Marijke Kershaw.The main points include:Using the Thriving Index for self-awareness and leveraging strengths at work.How the Thriving Index supports organisations in high potential identification and succession planning.The power of recognising and integrating personal "signature strengths" and managing "allowable weaknesses. Marijke's insights on job crafting to align work roles with one’s innate strengths.Strategies for succession planning using "critical role scoring" and creating "success profiles."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 MarijkeWebsiteLinkedInCompany LinkedInConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 104: The Managers Dilema with Irial O’FarrellEpisode 177: Leveraging Transferable Skills for Career Success with Janine EsbrandEpisode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien