IMPLICATION OF POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY FOR INDIVIDUAL GROWTH: A HAPPIER YOU, A BETTER ORGANIZATION

ABSTRACT Although the value of positivity has been assumed over the years, only recently has it become a major focus area for theory building, research, and application in psychology and now organizational behaviour. This research paper examines how the Science of Positive Psychology revolutionizes the Workplace. Humans are treated as capital, and firms focus on their failings and weaknesses rather than their strengths. In a post-crash world such approaches are unsustainable, and positive psychology provides a new way of managing that will revolutionize the workplace. Unlike what many would believe, it is OK to be happy at work; in fact, we should be happy at work. Positive psychological principles have become increasingly prevalent in the workplace in recent years. However, the field still lacks a comprehensive and practice-based overview of this important trend. The present paper focuses on reviewing recent research in positive psychology as it relates to the workplace, including research regarding constructs such as resilience, appreciative inquiry, empowerment, gratitude, psychological capital, work engagement, supervisor and organizational support, positive teamwork and co-worker relations, and positive leadership. Finally, the gaps in the relevant literature have been discussed in order to enhance the rigor of positive workplace research as well as the frequency and efficacy of relevant organizational interventions.