10 Positive Emotions that increase employee engagement

In today's workplace, fostering employee engagement is crucial for productivity and overall well-being. Barbara L. Fredrickson, a renowned scholar in social psychology and positive psychology, has conducted extensive research on positive emotions. Her "broaden-and-build" theory of positive emotions suggests that for individuals to thrive in life, they need three positive emotional experiences for every one negative emotional experience. In this blog post, we'll explore the ten most common positive emotions identified by Dr. Fredrickson and how they can significantly enhance employee engagement.

1. Joy

Joy is a fleeting emotion often triggered by specific experiences. In the workplace, you can cultivate joy by celebrating achievements, such as team successes or individual accomplishments. Recognizing and acknowledging your employees' efforts can create moments of joy. Social activities like team celebrations and after-work events can also contribute to a joyful work environment.

2. Gratitude

Gratitude involves appreciating what you have rather than focusing on what you lack. In the workplace, expressing gratitude can be as simple as thanking a colleague for their assistance or recognizing the privilege of using your skills in your job. It fosters a positive atmosphere and encourages employees to feel thankful for their work.

3. Serenity

Serenity represents a state of engagement where one experiences a sense of flow and peacefulness. It involves being fully present in tasks without distractions. Achieving serenity at work entails remaining calm under pressure and focusing entirely on the task at hand, which can enhance productivity and well-being.

4. Interest

Interest is a catalyst for curiosity and can lead to the discovery of new skills, ideas, and interests. Being engaged and interested in projects, concepts, or ideas can open the door to innovation, better collaboration, and improved memory. Embracing curiosity fosters engagement at work.

5. Hope

Hope is the belief that things will improve, even in the face of setbacks. It is a cornerstone of optimism and employee well-being. Maintaining hope pushes individuals forward despite challenges, contributing to a positive outlook and resilience in the workplace.

6. Pride

Celebrating accomplishments, especially when they were deemed unattainable or required significant effort, is essential. Pride at work involves recognizing one's leadership, contribution, and self-worth. Acknowledging achievements can boost morale and motivation.

7. Amusement

Maintaining a sense of humor and not taking life too seriously is vital for workplace well-being. Laughter and shared humor with colleagues foster a sense of connection. Employees who can laugh at themselves and their mistakes tend to have better mental and emotional health.

8. Inspiration

Inspiration can come from various sources, including powerful speeches, art, music, nature, or colleagues' achievements. It leads to innovation, motivation, and a state of flow. Encouraging inspiration in the workplace can enhance team dynamics, engagement, and creative thinking.

9. Awe

Awe involves experiencing wonder, marvel, and deep appreciation. In the workplace, taking a moment to reflect on team achievements can inspire awe. Awe can lead to further inspiration, pushing individuals to exceed their perceived limits.

10. Love

Love is a powerful positive emotion that fosters connection and elation. In the workplace, showing appreciation and care for colleagues builds a culture of trust and unity. Demonstrating love, respect, and care can create a positive work environment.

Understanding and harnessing these positive emotions can significantly increase employee engagement and overall workplace well-being. By promoting these emotions, employers can cultivate a positive, motivated, and productive workforce.

Which of these positive emotions have you experienced in the workplace recently?