Success is just one part of the equation – let’s talk about joy

This post is written by Shabana Ansari, Senior Policy Analyst, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

The problem: Many of us find ourselves working hard toward professional goals, hoping that happiness will come along with success.

Why it matters: Achieving career milestones doesn't necessarily lead to fulfillment. When we prioritize well-being, we not only foster happiness but also lay the groundwork for our work's lasting impact.

The solution: By aligning our career with our values, finding purpose in everyday tasks, and building meaningful relationships, we can create the conditions for both joy and success.

(Note: As a non-disabled, neurotypical, cisgender woman, I acknowledge that the approach outlined in the article may not work for everyone, especially those who may be disabled, neurodivergent, have intersecting identities, or are living with issues I know nothing about.)

Many of us expect the same things from our career. We want to earn well so we can support ourselves and our families, enjoy our work, and feel fulfilled. These are reasonable goals but sometimes it is easy to forget that happiness leads to success and not the other way around.

Promotions, pay raises, and job titles have long been seen as stepping stones to a happier life. But research and real-life experience both suggest that professional accomplishments alone rarely bring lasting satisfaction.

Success may not be a reliable indicator of contentment but that doesn’t mean we have to choose between the two. We just have to rethink our approach and invest in happiness first and let success follow.

However, feeling fulfilled at work takes consistent and intentional effort. Here are some steps to get started:

Align your work with your values

Reflect on what matters most to you – whether it's creativity, service, or collaboration – and seek tasks or projects that resonate with those values, even if they are small parts of your role.

Someone I know enjoys supporting others. Even when their role doesn’t explicitly involve helping people, they seek out opportunities like mentoring a colleague, helping a teammate navigate a challenge, or simply being a sounding board.

“Doing this ensures that my time at work feels more meaningful and keeps me connected to my colleagues, which is essential for my long-term motivation and well-being.”

Focus on purpose over perks

A sense of purpose can be a powerful source of fulfillment.

Try to connect your work to a broader purpose. Ask yourself: Who benefits from what I do? Even in roles that seem routine, there’s often a meaningful impact if you look closely.

A friend, whose job can often feel monotonous, says they reflect on the bigger picture.

“By doing my work efficiently, I’m supporting decision-makers who rely on that information to serve clients. It may not be glamorous but knowing that my work contributes to something larger gives me a quiet sense of pride and purpose.”

Celebrate Progress, Not Just Outcomes

Acknowledge your small wins and milestones. Progress is motivating, even if the final goal is far away.

A former colleague keeps a “done list” to remind them of what they’ve achieved so far.

“It’s a small thing but it helps shift my focus from what’s left to do to what I’ve already accomplished. It reinforces my progress, offers a balanced perspective on my achievements so far, and boosts my mood and motivation.”

Build Positive Relationships

Foster genuine connections with colleagues through simple but impactful gestures, like checking in or sharing a laugh or a story. A supportive team can make even tough days more manageable and less isolating.

For managers and leaders:

Happier employees are more engaged, more resilient, and more likely to stay so it makes sense to prioritize well-being instead of focusing solely on performance metrics.

• Help your team see the impact of their work

Many employees feel disconnected from the outcomes of their work. It is the leader’s job to bridge that gap and to connect their work to a larger mission.

Taking a moment to show colleagues how their work serves others can boost morale, deepen their sense of purpose, and strengthen team connection.

• Invest in your team’s learning and growth

Provide opportunities for development – whether formal or informal. Growth fuels engagement and helps prevent stagnation, which in turn leads to happier teams.

• Set Boundaries and Prioritize Well-being

Encourage your team to protect their time and energy by taking regular breaks, avoiding overcommitting, and disconnecting after hours when possible.

Advocate for a healthy work-life balance for yourself and your team.

A Better Way Forward

Success and happiness don’t have to be mutually exclusive. By prioritizing well-being, we set the stage for sustainable performance and deeper fulfillment for ourselves and our team.

It’s time to rethink the old “success first” mindset and embrace a more intentional and sustainable approach to thriving at work.