To demonstrate how a culture of joy can lead to increased loyalty for companies in 2023, research from neuroscience and psychology can be used to explain the impact of positive emotions on decisions. For example, a study by Fredrickson et al. (2008) found that when people experienced positive emotions, they were more likely to cooperate with others and make decisions that would benefit the group as a whole. Seligman et al. (2006) also found that employees that have cultivated a culture of joy are more likely to make decisions based on a longer-term perspective, rather than a short-term one. This is because positive emotions activate the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with goal-oriented decision-making and long-term problem-solving (Gable & Harmon-Jones, 2008). This suggests that when employees experience positive emotions at work, they are more likely to make decisions that are beneficial to their company in the long run, such as staying loyal to their employers and maintaining a higher level of performance (Gable & Harmon-Jones, 2008).
In addition, research by Isen (2001) demonstrated that when people experience positive emotions, they are more likely to show an increased level of trust. This suggests that when employees feel joyful at work, they are more likely to trust their employer, leading to higher levels of loyalty (Isen, 2001).
Finally, research by Fredrickson et al. (2008) also found that when people experience positive emotions, their level of self-efficacy increases. This suggests that when employees feel joyful at work, they are more likely to feel confident and capable, which can lead to an increased level of loyalty to the company.
