When we think of happiness, we don’t consider it a requirement for peak performance or elite leadership. But it is.
In this article, I will discuss the science of happiness and its remarkable ability to enhance your well-being, ultimately leading to peak performance in the business realm. As a performance coach specialising in supporting senior leaders, I have witnessed the transformative power of happiness firsthand.
Let’s start with understanding the science of happiness.
Understanding the Science of Happiness
The Neurochemical Symphony:
Did you know that happiness is an abstract concept and a beautifully orchestrated symphony of neurochemicals in your brain?
The neurochemicals serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins mix, creating a euphoric state that promotes overall well-being. Understanding this chemical dance empowers us to harness its potential to elevate our performance and leadership capabilities.
The Happiness-Performance Connection:
It’s fascinating how happiness and peak performance are interconnected. Research has shown that our brains function at their best when we’re happy. We become more focused, creative, and resilient, allowing us to make sound decisions and clearly lead.
We unlock the door to enhanced productivity, innovation, and success by prioritising our happiness.
The Wellbeing-Performance Connection
The Senior Leader’s Paradox:
As senior leaders, we often neglect our own well-being while tirelessly driving our teams towards excellence. This was true for me when coaching in professional sports, you would think as a performance coach, I would lead with self-care, but this was not the case.
It’s a paradoxical dance that can lead to burnout, reduced productivity, and strained relationships. However, we can break free from this cycle by recognising the crucial link between well-being and performance and creating a harmonious environment that fosters success.
The Ripple Effect of Well-being:
When we prioritise our well-being, its positive effects ripple outward, benefiting not only ourselves but also our teams and organisations.
By modelling an integrated and healthy approach to work, we inspire our colleagues to do the same. A contagious culture of well-being paves the way for improved engagement, collaboration, and, ultimately, high performance.
Strategies for Enhancing Well-being
Embrace the Power of Nature:
Nature has a remarkable way of replenishing our spirits and nurturing our well-being. As senior leaders, it’s vital to step away from the confines of the boardroom and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the natural world. Take regular walks in the park, organise team-building activities outdoors, or even incorporate green elements into your office space.
Some of the well-documented benefits that can come from human interaction with nature are:
- Reduced stress and anger
- Better cognitive performance
- Increased positive affect (including feelings of calm and awe)
- A sense of connection to something larger than the self
- A more concrete awareness of the life cycle
Cultivate Mindfulness:
In the hustle and bustle of the corporate world, it’s easy to get caught up in the never-ending to-do lists and the ceaseless chatter of our minds. Mindfulness offers a powerful antidote, allowing us to pause, observe, and reconnect with the present moment. Whether through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindful eating, incorporating mindfulness practices into our daily routines can reduce stress, enhance focus, and foster a greater sense of happiness and well-being.
Prioritise Self-Care:
Self-care is not selfish; it’s an essential act of self-preservation. As senior leaders, we must prioritise our physical and mental health. I can not say this enough, but I still see it. And the actions of leaders leak down into the people around them.
Get enough sleep, nourish your body with nutritious food, and engage in activities that bring you joy outside of work. Remember, when we care for ourselves, we have more energy and capacity to lead others effectively.
Leveraging Happiness for Peak Performance
Cultivate Positive Emotions
Positive emotions act as fuel for peak performance. By consciously cultivating gratitude, joy, and optimism, we create an internal environment primed for success. Start a gratitude journal, express appreciation to your team members, and savour the small victories. As a founder and leader, this is a big one; I need to savour those little wins. Little wins, time and time again, add up into something significant.
These practices enhance your personal happiness and create a positive ripple effect in your professional life. Athletes are the same; a happy life outside of the sport will help improve performance.
H3: Embrace Authenticity
As senior leaders, we often feel the weight of expectations, leading us to wear masks and suppress our true selves. However, embracing authenticity is a catalyst for happiness and success. Create an environment where vulnerability and genuine connections are valued. Being true to yourself inspires trust and creates a culture of openness and innovation.
Seek Support from a Performance Coach:
Navigating the complex landscape of senior leadership can be challenging. Engaging the services of a performance coach can provide invaluable support on your journey towards happiness and peak performance. As a performance coach, we guide you, offering insights, tools, and personalised strategies to help you unlock your full potential and thrive in the business world. Check out how performance coaching can help you here.
Summary
As a senior leader, by prioritising your happiness (not to the detriment of others), you unleash a powerful force that propels you towards tremendous success, fulfilment, and meaningful connections with those you lead. Let happiness be your compass on this extraordinary leadership journey.