New research reports there is happiness in the world. Thank God.

In the midst of a war enveloping our hearts, minds, and energy, the United Nations released its tenth World Happiness Report last week. (Link to full report.)

Irene Stachon/AP

The good news is there is good news. Finland ranked first for the fifth time in a row. The United States (#16) made it into the top twenty out of the 146 countries ranked by the Gallup survey. Considering the Great Resignation, ranking that high gives hope for happiness in the months ahead.

In the midst of this crazy world, the really good news is the global average of what the report calls "benevolence" was up 25% in 2021, as summarized by CNN.

Benevolence includes three things:
🤍 Donating to charity
🤍 Helping a stranger
🤍 Volunteering

It's good to live in a world where those three benevolent actions are rising.

More good news is that stress grew at a much slower rate than in prior years. Considering the pandemic roller coaster of 2020-2021, that's a welcome surprise.

All in all, happiness was on the rise in 2021, and it is owed to benevolence and trust.

What can business leaders glean from the UN report?

Happiness, benevolence, and trust are important to people. How can you influence more of those three in your company? It could make a difference in whether you're working on retention or resignations.

Coincidentally, a new study from the Pew Research Center this month reports the top three reasons people in the US quit their jobs last year were:
❌ Low pay
❌ Lack of opportunities for advancement
❌ Feeling disrespected at work

Do the results of the UN’s happiness report and Pew research align with how your people feel? It would be wise to find out before your time, energy, and dollars are spent replacing people who leave because of something you could have addressed.

Check these reports out and reflect on what would serve your company and people best. If you need help, get in touch with us. We are here for you.

Take care of yourself and each other.