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Did you know that your body produces a group of hormones called the “feel-good” hormones? These are dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin. Understanding how to unlock these happiness chemicals can lead to more job satisfaction.

Dopamine: is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in motivation. The higher the dopamine levels in your body, the higher is your alertness, focus, creativity, long-term memory, and concentration. In the workplace, dopamine can be stimulated by setting achievable goals and providing positive feedback, which in turn drives motivation and gives us a feeling that we are on the right track.

As a manager ensure employees feel alignment with their roles, create a sense of purpose, and promote growth and career development.

Serotonin: is another neurotransmitter that regulates your mood. It boosts self-esteem, inner satisfaction, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Simultaneously it battles cortisol, your stress hormone. In the workplace, serotonin can be stimulated by taking a break to exercise, to meditate, or to walk outside while taking a call.

As a manager create a positive work environment, promote teamwork, and encourage social interactions.

Endorphins: are neurotransmitters that increase overall happiness and can act as natural painkillers. In the workplace, endorphins can be stimulated by incorporating moments of laughter and opportunities for exercise into your work routine.

As a manager inject some fun activities into your leadership routines and encourage physical activity.

Oxytocin: is a hormone that is often referred to as the “love hormone” promoting trust and a sense of unity. It allows for strong bonds within your team. In the workplace, oxytocin can be stimulated by team-building activities, by intentionally building positive relationships with your colleagues, and by taking out time to help others.

As a manager ensure you show some vulnerability, you contribute to a safe work environment, and you encourage collaboration and teamwork.

We’ve been taught that if we work hard, we will be successful, and then we’ll be happy. But according to Shawn Achor the formula is actually backward: happiness fuels success, not the other way around.

Happiness at work matters. Boost your happiness chemicals today for optimal performance!