Most of us average more than 40 hours at work each week, so it may be alarming to know that recent studies suggest more than 60 percent of people claim to be unhappy at work. For how much time we spend working, should we not demand happiness for ourselves throughout those 40 hours? Over the course of more than 20 years, I have met all kinds of people in several lines of work and have been fortunate enough to learn and be inspired by people who have managed to find happiness in their jobs. I’ve taken the opportunity to speak with these individuals to learn more about how they’ve achieved and maintained happiness throughout their careers.
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“Some of my fondest memories are the times Sandra and I would partner to design and deliver coaching sessions aimed at Leadership and Team Development. She is fun to partner with. She is bright and talented and competent. However, what puts Sandra over the op is that she always brings joy and laughter and comfort to her coaching. She makes you feel a happiness that you are sitting in her class and it is going to be a great day.”
Jack Grosvenor, President jack grosvenor + associates -
“Sandra Summerhayes has written a book that is a valuable tool for individuals, teams, and organizations who want to have a better way to communicate, collaborate and infuse general satisfaction in the workplace. The book includes real-life stories that are both inspirational and relatable. Sandra’s optimistic and practical perspective shines through this refreshing approach to happiness in the workplace. I highly recommend this book!”
Robin L. Owens, Ph.D., Leadership Purpose Coach Founder, MASTERFUL Course Creations -
“Sandra has captured the essence of how to bring happiness to the workplace by providing simple and practical lessons gleaned from “happy” people. Whether you are a business owner, a leader, or a committed employee, the choices you make can influence your own happiness. Sandra exemplifies the power of intention, recognition, and purpose in creating happiness. This is a quick read packed with inspirational stories.”
Laurie Flasko, Laurie Flasko & Associates Inc. Customer Service and Kindness Expert -
“Sandra has written a must-read book full of insightful information for those of us who want to learn about the benefits of choosing happiness at work. What I appreciated most was how Sandra captured the authenticity of the experiences shared by those she interviewed. This is a brilliant example of Sandra’s passion for helping people become the best version of themselves.”
Lori Watson, Director, Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities Niagara Region -
“I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Sandra for over ten years. It is no surprise that she has authored a book on happiness. I don’t think there has ever been a time when I haven’t seen her smiling. I love that her book reflects her values as much as it does those of whom she interviewed.
Sandra has pulled together a practical guide; a book of ideas based on personal experiences, on how both the individual and the leader can contribute to a workplace where people are inspired to do good work.”
Audie McCarthy, President & CEO Mohawk College Enterprise -
“Sandra’s book is an uplifting and life-affirming exploration of happiness at work. But the underlying message from all of the contributors really emphasizes that happiness is a skill and a choice that influences the entire range of our human experience. Qualities like gratitude, self-knowledge, presence, authenticity and serving others-these are such valuable life skills that any of us can learn and apply to enrich every day of our professional and personal lives. It’s a book to read and read again anytime we need a little encouragement and a hug!”
Brenda Martin, Programs & Operations Manager Niagara Women’s Enterprise Centre -
“I knew a few pages in I needed to get multiple copies to keep on my desk. I want not only the staff I work with but new employees that we on-board to receive this book so we can, as a team, reflect on how we can bring happiness to work. The personal stories in this book brought focus to real life strategies that we can all relate to.”
Deanna Villella , Manager, Employment Services Job Gym, a division of the John Howard Society of Niagara -
“Written in the voice of the story tellers, Choosing Happiness at Work provides the reader a journey to discover their own happiness at work while reading the experiences of others. Each story conveys key insights, messages and learnings that helps us make sense of our own thoughts and experiences about the meaning of happiness. Sandra completes the journey by giving the reader the questions to explore the meaning of personal happiness at work and to be a happy leader. Enjoy the happiness journey.”
Dr. Loisann Hauer , Organization & Leadership Development Professional