A smile is all it takes to make the work place better, according to a new study.
Someone just being nice with a smile and a few kind words is enough to improve the way many people feel, says the Feel Good Factor Index published by PruHealth.
Although spending time with family and friends ranks highest, doing a kind deed for some else, job security and being recognised for achievements at work are all important for someone’s wellbeing.
The study reinforces the view that most people are at their happiest when they have the right work-life balance.
The survey asked more than 2,000 people what made them happy – top of the list was spending time with family and loved ones (56%), followed by sharing in their achievements (36%).
Someone being nice or smiling took third place (27%).
The other results were:
- Taking a walk on a nice day (24%)
- Getting a good night’s sleep (24%)
- Doing something for someone else (17%)
- Job and financial security (17%)
- Time with pets (13%)
- Nights out (13%)
- Keeping fit (12%)
- Finding a money saving deal (11%)
Dr Katie Tryon, health and wellbeing expert at PruHealth, said: “It would be great if everyone could smile at someone today and get the warm glow from knowing you’ve made someone happy.
“It’s really important for our physical and mental wellbeing to feel good, and as our index shows there are many inexpensive ways to get that feeling, including taking time out to go for a walk.”
The over 55s had the best outlook on life – with 62% opting for a ‘glass half full’ approach and only 12% confessing they were pessimists.
Many of the people surveyed admitted they succumbed to guilty pleasures, with one in four disclosing they enjoyed slobbing in front of a movie on the TV while munching a pile of chocolate.
The findings showed the biggest treat was time off work on holiday.
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