Happiness isn’t something to squeeze into the margins of your life. It’s the foundation of everything you do. And when you prioritize your happiness and well-being, you show up more focused, energized and engaged. And that benefits everyone around you.

As we close out the year, I’m reflecting on what it would look like if our workplaces and schools were designed to truly honor that diversity. If we created systems where everyone felt supported to celebrate—or not celebrate—what aligns with their values and traditions.

A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that regular rest leads to greater job satisfaction, reduced burnout and higher levels of creativity (Sonnentag & Fritz, 2007). Another study from Harvard Business Review highlights that leaders who model healthy work-life boundaries reduce burnout in their teams by 70% (HBR, 2020).

Only 30% of managers and 23% of employees worldwide were engaged in 2023. That’s a costly gap. When managers aren’t engaged, productivity drops, innovation stalls, and profitability takes a hit. Engagement is no longer optional—it’s essential.

This can be one of the most intense periods of the year, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. November naturally brings a focus on gratitude and by building appreciation into your team’s day-to-day, you can energize and support them during these final weeks.

Employees are no longer just looking for a paycheck—they’re looking for opportunities to learn, develop and progress. The workplaces that provide continuous growth opportunities aren't just fulfilling a wish list; they’re creating a culture that drives retention, innovation and productivity.

Ping pong tables might be fun, but they can’t fix broken trust, poor communication or disengaged employees. Unlimited snacks won’t cure burnout or create a sense of purpose. And wellness programs fall flat when employees are overwhelmed, underappreciated and unsupported. These are surface-level perks that distract from the real work that needs to be done.

Data shows that companies that embrace diversity and equity as part of a broader strategy for flourishing consistently outperform their competitors. For instance, a study by McKinsey & Company found that companies with diverse leadership are 25% more likely to experience above-average profitability. Research published in Harvard Business Review shows that inclusive workplaces lead to an 83% increase in employee innovation.

At its core, optimism is about believing that the future holds promise and that, with effort, we can navigate challenges and reach our goals. When people feel optimistic about where they’re headed, they’re more engaged, motivated and likely to persevere, even in the face of obstacles.

Research tells us that when people feel supported and cared for, they’re more likely to flourish. Compassionate environments—where people’s needs and feelings are acknowledged and respected—lead to greater happiness, stronger connections and more meaningful lives.

According to a Gallup study, organizations with high employee engagement see 21% higher profitability and 17% higher productivity (Gallup, 2021). When employees understand and align with the company's mission, they’re not just doing a job—they’re part of a purpose-driven team.

According to a study in the Academy of Management Journal, authentic employees drive organizational innovation. When people can be themselves, they’re more likely to contribute creative ideas without fear of judgment (Gardner, Avolio, & Walumbwa, 2005). This leads to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity and lower turnover, as highlighted by the Harvard Business Review (2020).

Confidence is crucial for organizational success, educational achievement and community vitality. Ensuring that people have access to the tools and knowledge needed to thrive is essential and creates environments where everyone can contribute meaningfully and realize their full potential.

When businesses prioritize happiness, remarkable things happen. Research from the University of Warwick reveals that happy employees are up to 12% more productive. This increase in productivity stems from a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment found in workplaces that prioritize happiness.