Happiness Traps

By: Annie McKee

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Synopsis: Numerous studies show that close to two-thirds of U.S. employees are bored, detached, or jaded and ready to sabotage plans, projects, and other people. Why so much unhappiness among professionals who have the capacity to shape their work lives? The author highlights three of the most common reasons--ambition, doing what's expected of us, and overwork--which seem productive on the surface but are harmful when taken to the extreme. To break free of these "happiness traps," you first have to accept that you deserve happiness at work. Then you can use your emotional intelligence--particularly emotional self-awareness, emotional self-control, and organizational awareness--to understand which trap has ensnared you. Finally, you must actively seek meaning and purpose in day-to-day activities, foster hope in yourself and others, and build friendships at work.