Want Happier Employees AND a Better Bottom Line? Read This.

Tired of the same old "work harder, not smarter" advice? 

In today's article you'll discover how prioritizing employee happiness can actually boost your company's performance.

IN TODAY’S ARTICLE:

1. "Delivering Happiness" Overview

2. Put Three Concepts into Practice Today:

• Company Culture: Culture shapes destiny.
• Happiness as a Business Model: Happiness is the fuel for growth.
• Pursuing Passion: Passion drives purpose.

3. Don't Forget What You Learn:

• Read the Short Story ’The Journey of Hope’
• Gain Wisdom the Fable ‘The Flourishing Forest’

• Glance Over the Frequently Asked Questions

4. Grow Your Professional Network in 30 Seconds

5. Subscribe Today

i Some links on this page are affiliate links

1. ‘DELIVERING HAPPINESS’ OVERVIEW

"Happiness is really just about four things: perceived control, perceived progress, connectedness (number and depth of your relationships), and vision/meaning (being part of something bigger than yourself)."

"Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose" is a captivating journey through Tony Hsieh's entrepreneurial life, offering a fresh perspective on business success. You'll find yourself chuckling at Hsieh's early failures and cheering for his bold decisions as he builds Zappos into a customer service powerhouse. The book's real magic lies in its passionate advocacy for putting happiness at the core of business strategy. Hsieh's insights on company culture, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction are both practical and inspiring. His candid sharing of both triumphs and struggles adds authenticity to his message. By the end, you'll be questioning your own approach to work and life, wondering how you too can infuse more meaning and joy into your professional pursuits. This isn't just a business book; it's a call to action that will leave you eager to redefine success on your own terms.  Are you ready to stop chasing the money and start chasing the passion?

AMAZON: Audiobook (8 hours, 17 minutes) and book available:

BLINKIST: 11 minute in-depth book summary available:

2. PUT THREE (3) KEY CONCEPTS* FROM THE BOOK INTO PRACTICE TODAY

Let's dive into each concept and learn practical ways to put them into practice:

1️⃣ Company Culture

2️⃣ Happiness as a Business Model

3️⃣ Pursuing Passion

Bonus Tips For:

• Aspiring Entrepreneurs
• Business Leaders Seeking To Improve Company Culture,
• Customer Service Professionals

*You'll find several more concepts in the book

1️⃣ COMPANY CULTURE

"Your personal core values define who you are, and a company’s core values ultimately define the company’s character and brand. For individuals, character is destiny. For organizations, culture is destiny."

Imagine your workplace as a vibrant community where everyone is not just working, but thriving.

A company culture is the personality of a workplace, the shared values and beliefs that shape how people interact and approach their work. Imagine a place where everyone feels like they belong, a place where their contributions are valued, and where they're encouraged to be their best selves. A strong, positive culture fuels collaboration, innovation, and ultimately, success. It's like the difference between a bland, lifeless office and a buzzing hive of creativity and camaraderie.

Company Culture is Like Cultivating a Garden

Putting company culture into practice is like tending to a diverse and flourishing garden.

Just as a gardener carefully selects the right seeds, nurtures the soil, and provides water and sunlight, a leader must carefully choose and nurture the core values, provide the right resources, and create an environment where employees can thrive. Both processes require patience, attention, and continuous care to ensure a flourishing and vibrant result.

What specific actions are you taking to nurture and cultivate your company's culture, similar to how a gardener tends to their garden? How would you "prune" or "weed out" elements that don't align with your desired culture?

Use the ‘Company Culture’ Concept Today

1. Cultivate Shared Values: Go beyond just listing values on a website. Engage your team in workshops or discussions to define what these values mean in practice. Create a "culture book" like Zappos, where employees share stories and examples of how they live these values. This fosters a sense of ownership and shared understanding. Regularly revisit and reinforce these values through communication and recognition of those who exemplify them.
2. Prioritize Hiring for Cultural Fit: Don't just focus on skills and experience. Ask interview questions that delve into candidates' values, passions, and how they collaborate with others. Use behavioral questions to get a sense of how they've handled situations in the past. Consider using personality assessments or group interviews to gauge how well candidates would integrate into your existing team.
3. Build Community: Make time for fun and connection outside of work. Organize team-building activities like escape rooms, volunteering events, or even casual social gatherings. Encourage employee-led initiatives like book clubs or hobby groups. This helps build rapport and a sense of belonging, creating a more enjoyable and supportive work environment.

• BONUS: Empower and Listen: Create multiple channels for employees to share their ideas and feedback, like suggestion boxes, regular surveys, or open-door policies. Actively seek out and listen to their input, and show them how their feedback is being used to improve the company. Celebrate and reward employees who contribute valuable ideas or go above and beyond to help their colleagues.

Page-to-practice ideas tailored to:

• Aspiring Entrepreneurs - Shared Values: Define and communicate your startup's core values and integrate them into hiring and training. Team Building: Organize team-building activities to build trust and camaraderie. Employee Recognition: Implement a recognition system to reward team members who exemplify company values. Open Communication: Create an open-door policy and hold team meetings for transparent communication.

• Business Leaders Seeking to Improve Company Culture - Shared Values: Define and communicate core values to all employees. Team Building: Organize team-building activities to foster community and connectedness. Employee Recognition: Implement a recognition system for employees who exemplify company values. Open Communication: Create an open-door policy and hold town hall meetings for transparent communication.
• Customer Service Professionals - Shared Values: Embrace and communicate company core values to deliver excellent service. Team Building: Participate in team-building activities to strengthen relationships. Employee Recognition: Recognize and reward team members who deliver exceptional service. Open Communication: Foster open communication within the team for idea sharing and feedback.

Remember: Culture shapes destiny.

Learn More About 'Company Culture' and Similar Concepts - Check Out:

"Powerful: Building a Culture of Freedom and Responsibility" by Patty McCord offers a fresh perspective on company culture, emphasizing the importance of empowering employees and fostering a sense of ownership.

Simon Sinek: "Start With Why" (TEDx Talk). This talk emphasizes the importance of purpose and values in creating a strong company culture.

2️⃣ HAPPINESS AS A BUSINESS MODEL

"My advice is to stop trying to 'network' in the traditional business sense, and instead just try to build up the number and depth of your friendships, where the friendship itself is its own reward. The more diverse your set of friendships are, the more likely you’ll derive both personal and business benefits from your friendship later down the road. You won’t know exactly what those benefits will be, but if your friendships are genuine, those benefits will magically appear 2-3 years later down the road."

Happiness as a Business Model revolves around prioritizing the well-being and satisfaction of both employees and customers.

Tony Hsieh’s philosophy at Zappos shows that when a business genuinely cares about making people happy, it can lead to remarkable success. By focusing on creating positive experiences and meaningful connections, companies can build loyalty, trust, and a strong brand reputation. In your professional life, applying this model means fostering a workplace where employees are valued and customers are delighted, which can lead to increased satisfaction and growth. Personally, adopting this mindset can enhance your interactions and relationships, making your life more fulfilling and joyful.

Happiness as a Business Model is Like Building a Perpetual Motion Machine

Implementing happiness as a business model is like creating a perpetual motion machine.

Just as this device would continuously operate without external energy input, a happiness-focused business model generates its own momentum. Happy employees create positive customer experiences, leading to satisfied customers who, in turn, fuel employee satisfaction and business growth, creating a self-sustaining cycle of positivity and success.

What "gears" or components would you include in your happiness perpetual motion machine to keep it running smoothly?

Use the ‘Happiness as a Business Model’ Concept Today

1. Invest in Employee Well-being: Go beyond the standard health insurance and paid time off. Offer unique perks like on-site fitness classes, meditation sessions, or even pet-friendly offices. Consider providing stipends for personal development courses or hobby expenses. Show your employees you care about their whole selves, not just their work output.
2. Customer Delight: Focus on delivering exceptional customer service. Go the extra mile to wow your customers with personalized experiences, such as handwritten thank-you notes, surprise upgrades, or remembering their preferences. For example, if a customer frequently buys a particular product, you might offer them an exclusive discount on their next purchase. These small gestures can create a lasting impression and foster customer loyalty.
3. Career Progression: You can create a clear path for employee advancement, similar to Zappos' skills-based promotion system, to boost job satisfaction and retention. Develop a comprehensive skills matrix for each role, outlining what employees need to learn to advance. Provide resources and support for skill development, and tie promotions directly to these achievements.

• BONUS: Feedback Loops: Regularly gather feedback from both employees and customers to understand their needs and make improvements. This shows that you value their opinions and are committed to continuous improvement. Use surveys, suggestion boxes, or focus groups to collect feedback, and then take action on the insights you receive. By addressing their concerns and implementing their suggestions, you build trust and improve satisfaction.

Page-to-practice ideas tailored to:

• Aspiring Entrepreneurs - Employee Well-Being: Offer flexible working hours and a supportive environment. Customer Delight: Focus on exceptional customer service with personalized experiences. Community Involvement: Engage in community service initiatives. Feedback Loops: Gather feedback from team and customers for continuous improvement.
• Business Leaders Seeking to Improve Company Culture - Employee Well-Being: Offer flexible working hours and mental health resources. Customer Delight: Deliver exceptional customer service with personalized experiences. Community Involvement: Engage in community service initiatives. Feedback Loops: Gather feedback from employees and customers for continuous improvement.
• Customer Service Professionals - Employee Well-Being: Advocate for a supportive work environment and flexible hours. Customer Delight: Focus on creating memorable experiences for customers. Community Involvement: Engage in community service initiatives. Feedback Loops: Gather and act on customer feedback to improve service quality.

Remember: Happiness is the fuel for growth.

Learn More About 'Happiness as a Business Model' and Similar Concepts - Check Out:

"Joy, Inc.: How We Built a Workplace People Love" by Richard Sheridan details how Menlo Innovations, a software company, created a workplace that prioritizes joy, engagement, and collaboration, leading to impressive business results.

Shawn Achor: "The Happy Secret to Better Work" (TED Talk). This talk explores the science of happiness and how positive emotions can boost productivity and success.

3️⃣ PURSUING PASSION

"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." - Mark Twain

Pursuing passion is about identifying what truly excites and motivates you, and then aligning your life and career around it.

Tony Hsieh emphasizes that knowing your passion makes every decision easier, as it provides a clear direction and purpose. When you chase what you love rather than money or prestige, you find deeper satisfaction and meaning in your endeavors. Professionally, this means choosing a career that aligns with your interests and values, leading to greater fulfillment and success. Personally, it involves dedicating time and energy to activities and relationships that bring you joy, making your life more vibrant and purposeful.

Pursuing Passion is Like Tending to a Bonsai Tree

Pursuing passion is like nurturing a bonsai tree.

It requires patience, dedication, and a delicate balance of care and restraint. Just as a bonsai artist shapes the tree over time, guiding its growth while respecting its natural tendencies, someone pursuing their passion must cultivate their skills and opportunities, making careful choices about which directions to grow. The process is slow and requires constant attention, but the result is a unique and beautiful creation that reflects both the artist's vision and the tree's essence.

What "branches" of your passion would you focus on developing first, and which might you prune away?

Use the ‘Pursuing Passion’ Concept Today

1. Meaningful Work: You can help employees connect their daily tasks to the larger purpose of the company, making their work feel more meaningful and aligned with their personal values. Regularly communicate the company's mission and impact. Share customer success stories or real-world examples of how the company's work makes a difference. Help each employee articulate how their role contributes to these larger goals.
2. Encourage Exploration: Offer job shadowing programs, mentorship opportunities, or temporary assignments in different departments. Allow employees to take on side projects or initiatives that align with their interests. This can help them discover hidden talents and potential career paths within the company.
3. Promote Autonomy: Avoid micromanaging and give employees the freedom to choose how they approach their work, as long as they meet deadlines and goals. Encourage them to come up with their own solutions and take ownership of their projects. This fosters creativity, innovation, and a sense of responsibility.

• BONUS: Celebrate Individuality: Recognize and appreciate the unique skills, talents, and personalities of each employee. Create opportunities for them to showcase their passions and expertise, whether it's through presentations, workshops, or internal knowledge-sharing platforms. Encourage diversity of thought and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued for their unique contributions.

Page-to-practice ideas tailored to:

• Aspiring Entrepreneurs - Personal Projects: Encourage team members to pursue passion projects during work hours. Skill Development: Offer training and development opportunities. Role Flexibility: Allow exploration of different roles within the company. Support Creativity: Create an environment that supports creativity and innovation.
• Business Leaders Seeking to Improve Company Culture - Personal Projects: Allocate time for employees to pursue passion projects. Skill Development: Offer training and development opportunities. Role Flexibility: Allow employees to explore different roles. Support Creativity: Encourage idea sharing and provide resources to bring ideas to life.
• Customer Service Professionals - Personal Projects: Seek opportunities within your role to pursue passion projects. Skill Development: Take advantage of training and development opportunities. Role Flexibility: Explore different roles within the team. Support Creativity: Share ideas for improving service and seek team support to implement them.

Remember:  Passion drives purpose.

Learn More About 'Pursuing Passion' and Similar Concepts - Check Out:

"Find Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team" by Simon Sinek helps individuals and organizations discover their purpose and align their work with their values, leading to greater fulfillment and impact.

Adam Leipzig: "How to Find Your Life Purpose in 5 Minutes" (TEDx Talk). This short but insightful talk offers a simple framework for identifying your passions and aligning them with your career.

3. DON'T FORGET WHAT YOU LEARNED 🏰📜❓

🏰 Read the Short Story

'The Journey of Hope'

Once upon a time in the bustling city of Riverside, a young and ambitious entrepreneur named Hope set out to create a business that would not only succeed but also change lives. She had always been passionate about baking, and her dream was to open a bakery that would become the heart of the community. Hope believed in three core principles: Company Culture, Happiness as a Business Model, and Pursuing Passion.

Hope started her journey by renting a small shop on Main Street. She named it "Hope's Hearth." From the very beginning, she knew that to create a successful business, she needed to foster a strong company culture. She hired a small team of bakers and staff, making sure they shared her values of kindness, creativity, and community spirit. Every morning, Hope would gather her team for a brief meeting, where they would discuss not just the tasks for the day but also share personal stories, celebrate small victories, and encourage each other. This practice created a sense of belonging and camaraderie among her team.

As Hope's Hearth grew in popularity, Hope never lost sight of her second principle: Happiness as a Business Model. She believed that happy employees would lead to happy customers. She introduced flexible working hours, provided mental health days, and created a cozy break room filled with books and games. She also made sure to surprise her staff with small tokens of appreciation, like handwritten notes or their favorite treats. This nurturing environment made her employees feel valued and motivated, which translated into exceptional customer service.

Hope's passion for baking was the heart and soul of Hope's Hearth. She poured her creativity into every recipe, constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques. Her eyes would light up with excitement whenever she talked about her latest creation, and her enthusiasm was contagious. She encouraged her team to explore their own passions within the bakery, whether it was designing unique cake decorations or crafting the perfect cup of coffee. This pursuit of passion kept the bakery vibrant and ever-evolving.

One winter, the bakery faced a crisis when a severe storm damaged the roof, forcing them to close temporarily. The community, now deeply connected to Hope's Hearth, rallied around them. Regular customers brought meals for the staff, local businesses offered help, and the team worked tirelessly to repair the damage. It was a testament to the strong company culture and the genuine happiness and passion that Hope had cultivated.

The bakery reopened with a grand celebration, and Hope stood before a crowd of smiling faces, grateful tears in her eyes. She realized that her journey was not just about creating a successful business but about building a community where everyone felt valued and loved.

Moral of the Story

The moral of the story is that a successful business is built not just on profits but on the foundation of a strong company culture, the happiness of its employees and customers, and the passionate pursuit of a shared vision. By nurturing these principles, one can create a thriving community and a legacy of love and kindness.

AMAZON: Audiobook (8 hours, 17 minutes) and book available:

BLINKIST: 11 minute in-depth book summary available:

📜 Read the Fable

'The Flourishing Forest'

Once upon a time, in a lush and vibrant forest, there lived a wise old owl named Andy. Andy had watched over the forest for many years and knew every creature and plant within it. He observed how the forest thrived when its inhabitants worked together harmoniously, pursued their true passions, and cared for one another. One day, he decided to share his wisdom with the younger animals to ensure the forest would continue to flourish.

Andy called a meeting with the forest's younger leaders: Alexis the fox, Heather the rabbit, Joshua the beaver, Rachel the deer, and Christian the squirrel. They gathered under the Great Oak Tree, curious to hear what Andy had to say.

"The key to a thriving forest," Andy began, "lies in three essential principles: Company Culture, Happiness as a Business Model, and Pursuing Passion."

Alexis, always eager to learn, asked, "What do you mean by Company Culture, Andy?"

Andy nodded and replied, "Company Culture is like the roots of a great tree. It is the foundation that holds everything together. In our forest, it means that we all share common values, support each other, and work towards a collective goal. When we respect and care for one another, the entire forest benefits."

Heather, with her gentle nature, chimed in, "How do we create this supportive environment?"

"By celebrating our differences and recognizing each other's strengths," Andy explained. "For example, Joshua the beaver is excellent at building dams, while Rachel the deer is swift and can scout for dangers. When we combine our unique abilities, we create a safe and nurturing home for all."

Joshua, who was known for his hardworking nature, asked, "What about Happiness as a Business Model?"

"Happiness as a Business Model," Andy said with a twinkle in his eye, "is like the sunlight that nourishes the plants. It means prioritizing the well-being of everyone in our community. When we ensure that everyone feels valued and happy, we create a thriving environment. This can be as simple as sharing food, offering a helping hand, or just being kind."

Christian, always curious, asked, "And what about Pursuing Passion?"

"Pursuing Passion is like the water that flows through our forest, giving life to everything it touches," Andy replied. "It means following what truly excites and motivates us. When each of us pursues our passions, we bring our best selves to the community. For instance, Heather loves tending to the garden, and her passion ensures we have the best fruits and vegetables. My passion for guiding and teaching helps us all grow wiser."

The young leaders nodded, understanding the importance of Andy's words. They realized that by nurturing a strong company culture, prioritizing happiness, and pursuing their passions, they could create a forest where everyone flourished.

Moral of the Fable

The moral of the fable is that a community thrives when it is built on strong values, prioritizes the well-being of its members, and encourages everyone to follow their passions. By embracing these principles, we create a harmonious and prosperous environment for all.

AMAZON: Audiobook (8 hours, 17 minutes) and book available:

BLINKIST: 11 minute in-depth book summary available:

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is "Delivering Happiness" about? "Delivering Happiness" by Tony Hsieh is a memoir and business book that explores the author's journey in building Zappos, a highly successful online shoe retailer. The book delves into the company's unique culture, focus on customer service, and the pursuit of employee happiness as a core business strategy.
2. How does "Delivering Happiness" differ from other business books? Unlike traditional business books that solely focus on profits and growth, "Delivering Happiness" emphasizes the importance of prioritizing employee well-being, company culture, and pursuing passion as key drivers of business success.
3. What are the main takeaways from "Delivering Happiness"? Some key takeaways from the book include the importance of building a strong company culture, prioritizing employee happiness as a business strategy, and aligning your career with your passions for greater fulfillment and success.

Company Culture

1. What is company culture and why is it important? Company culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape the social and psychological environment of a workplace. A positive company culture can lead to increased employee engagement, productivity, and overall business success.
2. How can I build a strong company culture in my organization? To build a strong company culture, focus on establishing shared values, hiring for cultural fit, building community, and empowering employees. Encourage open communication, feedback, and collaboration to create a positive and supportive work environment.

Happiness as a Business Model

1. What is the concept of "happiness as a business model"? The concept of "happiness as a business model" refers to prioritizing employee happiness and well-being as a core strategy for achieving business success. Happy employees tend to be more productive, innovative, and engaged, leading to better customer service and ultimately, higher profits.
2. How can I implement a happiness-based business model in my company? To implement a happiness-based business model, invest in employee well-being programs, focus on customer delight, create a positive work environment, and measure employee happiness regularly. Encourage open communication and feedback to ensure your efforts are effective and aligned with your employees' needs.

Pursuing Passion

1. What does it mean to pursue your passion in your career? Pursuing passion means aligning your career with your interests, skills, and values. It involves identifying what truly motivates and fulfills you, and then seeking out opportunities that allow you to express your unique talents and make a meaningful contribution.
2. How can I find and pursue my passion in my career? To find your passion, explore different roles and responsibilities within your field, try new things, and reflect on what activities bring you the most joy and fulfillment. Once you've identified your passions, seek out opportunities to align them with your career, whether it's through taking on new projects, seeking out additional training, or even making a career change.

4. GROW YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK IN 30 SECONDS

Feel free to send me a connection request on LinkedIn - it's always great to meet new professionals!

5. SUBSCRIBE TODAY

"Assume that the Person You Are Listening to Might Know Something You Don’t"- Jordan B. Peterson, 12 Rules for Life

We don't just review books; we turn them into real-world action plans. From the nuances of self-improvement to the strategies of business, from the lessons of history to the depth of philosophy, we ensure you gain a holistic learning experience.

Each review comes with three tailor-made, actionable steps drawn right from the book's core insights. Steps you can instantly infuse into your personal and professional realms.

Ready to transform your reading into results?

Be an Express Learner and Hop Aboard the Idea Express! Subscribe here today

See three key concepts from hundreds of books here: