Studies have shown that people who experience joy and positive emotions have improved physical health, mental health, and even longevity. For example, a meta-analysis of over 200 studies found that experiencing positive emotions leads to lower cortisol levels, improved immune system functioning, and increased physical and mental energy. Additionally, positive emotions have been linked to better decision-making (Isen, 2017). Better decisions lead to improved well-being.
Moreover, neuroscience has revealed that positive emotions can strengthen neural connections in the brain, making it easier to access positive memories and reduce stress. Specifically, researchers have found that positive emotions activate the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for higher-order thinking, decision-making, and social behavior. All of these effects can lead to improved well-being for companies, where employees can experience better physical and mental health and fewer sick days.
One study that has found a link between a joyful work environment and lower absenteeism is “The Impact of Positive Psychological Capital on Employee Absence” by Luthans, Youssef, and Avolio. This study found that employees who reported higher levels of positive psychological capital (which includes joy) had lower rates of absenteeism.
Another study that supports this finding is “Positive emotions and job satisfaction as predictors of work absenteeism” by Tims, Bakker, and Derks. This study found that employees who reported higher levels of positive emotions and job satisfaction were less likely to take sick leave.
