12/4/2019 11:40:50 AM
Work friendships make us feel safe, but they also help us perform at a higher level. Donald Clifton, the former educational psychologist who founded Gallup, found that these relationships are one of the strongest predictors of productivity. Gallup research has found that those who have strong work relationships are more engaged, produce higher-quality work and have a higher state of well being. Maintaining positive work relationships should rank up there with healthy eating and exercise as a necessary investment in your health.
A number of studies have highlighted the importance of work friends and good relationships to health, Here are some of the findings:
- Work friends are critical to job satisfaction. Over 85 percent of employees say friends at work is a crucial element to a happy working life, and 58 percent of individuals would refuse a higher paying job if it meant not getting along with co-workers.
- Socially engaged adults age more successfully. Those who are socially engaged and visit with friends and family throughout the week are happier as they age.
- Friends can help you achieve your weight and fitness goals. Encouragement and just sharing goes a long way to boosting your willpower.
- Happiness is catching. If you have a friend you consider to be happy, you are more likely to be happy and you are able to spread that happiness to the people around you.
- Building a circle of friends makes you happy. People who see themselves as a leader in their social circle are happier than those who see themselves as outsiders — another reason why actively building relationships instead of waiting for the phone to ring is important.
- Friends lessen grief. The most welcome forms of support were simply being physically present, listening, and offering encouragement, empathy and practical help.
- Being social boosts your immune system. Being socially engaged leads to more positive emotions and overall joy, which in turn may actually boost your body’s immune system and reduce the physical signs of stress say health experts.
Information provided by EveryDay Health.
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