1. Decrease Commuting Stress
According to the U.S. Census Bureau survey 86.5% of workers over the age of 16 drives to work, whether carpooling or driving alone. Bad commutes are a major source of unhappiness as they feel frustrated, powerless, and stressed. Employers should consider ways to decrease commuting stress. For instance, employers could stagger work times to avoid heavy traffic. Review beginning and ending times and determine if the specific times or the amount of people arriving at each time can be adjusted. In addition, review late arrival policies. If employees are severely reprimanded for arriving late, they will be much more stressed during a bad commute and will arrive at the office miserable. Another possibility is to offer telecommuting options. This eliminates the necessity of commuting and allows employees to work where they are most comfortable. Telecommuting also has a variety of benefits for the employer such as reduced costs.
2. More Control
Employers should look for ways to give employees more control over their schedules, environment, and/or work habits. For instance, employers could offer alternative work schedules such as flex time or telecommuting. Today's employees have demanding schedules outside of work, and many workers appreciate a boss who considers work-life balance. Because every person's obligations outside of work are different, customized schedules are a great way to improve employee satisfaction.
Employers should also encourage employees to customize their workstations. This could include décor and/or equipment. This not only gives employees control over their work environments, but it can ease personal barriers such as back pain or eyestrain. In addition, studies show that certain colors or décor can improve happiness. Employees will be able to create a place they enjoy working in rather than being stuck in a bland office cubicle. Another way to give employees a sense of control is to create employee-driven competitions such as sales competitions. These activities put employees in control of their success. Each employee can set personal goals, and they will feel a sense of accomplishment rather than obligation.
3. Deadlines
Tight deadlines are other major sources of stress for many employees. Employers can ease this stress by freeing up more time. For instance, employers can make meetings shorter and more efficient. Consider tricks that sound silly but are actually effective such as having a meeting with no chairs. People will be more likely to stick to the necessary agenda when they have to stand the entire meeting. Whenever possible, substitute conference calls for meetings. To reduce unnecessary chitchat, make calls before lunchtime or at the end of the day. People will want to cut to the chase, so they can go to lunch or get home. Another idea is to create organizational systems that improve efficiency. Clutter and confusion are major time zappers. Organized offices and systems ease stress, save time, and increase productivity.
4. Socialization
Socialization is a key component of happiness. Interacting with others gives people a boost in mood – surprisingly, this is true even for introverts. Employers should find ways to encourage social relations. Consider an office arrangement that fosters communication. Arrange workstations so employees can see each other and talk. Employers can also encourage office celebrations for holidays and birthdays. These celebrations do not need to be expensive. It can be as simple as asking everyone to bring in a covered dish. Even when there is no reason to celebrate, encourage employees to eat lunch together. Provide a comfortable eating area with nice kitchen facility. Socialization is not limited to office hours. Encourage out of office socialization such as volunteer programs. This gives employees a change to develop relationships outside of the office while promoting the company in a positive way. Community service is a great way to build a positive reputation, and it is a happiness booster for employees.
5. Promote Good Health
Poor health is not only damaging to employees, it is detrimental to businesses. Corporations pay a heavy cost for stress-related illnesses, such as hypertension, gastrointestinal problems, and substance abuse. Up to 90% of all doctor visits in the United States
Chronic stress has a variety of negative side effects such as weight gain, lower immune system, increased risk of disease, and fatigue. Employers should encourage employees to reduce stress levels and improve their overall health. The first step is to educate employees on health topics. Provide reading materials or offer seminars. People can't make positive changes if they don't know what to change. Once employees know about health topics such as stress, exercising, and healthy eating, starts a health related competition such as the Biggest Loser. This offers employees motivation and a support system. If the entire office is involved, employees will be more likely to accomplish their goals. To help employees make positive lifestyle changes, have a kitchen equipped with a refrigerator and microwave to prepare healthy meals. Research shows that preparing food is healthier than eating out. Also, encourage breaks throughout the day. Even small amounts of exercise throughout the day are beneficial.
Exercise releases serotonin and dopamine, the feel-good hormones that become blocked during stress. Walking stairs is a great workout. One study showed that walking stairs 7 minutes 
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