Happy Work

Start Work in a Good Place

Though I grew up very happily in the Midwest, at a fairly early age, I decided I would ignore the old admonition to “go west.” Washington, D.C. and the world of politics called me. And with the exception of a few brief years in Denver, I’ve happily lived on the east coast for decades.

This year’s interns, summer associates and new hires will likely follow their employers. If a corporation or law firm has offered a position in Timbuktu, for heaven’s sake, pack-up and go.

However, if you are starting work and have some flexibility, check out this year’s Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index published just last week. It ranks states based on more than 50 different well-being items is six different categories: life evaluation, work environment, emotional health, physical health, healthy behaviors and access to basic necessities.

Can’t say I’m surprised that Hawaii tops the Gallup-Healthways list, though it’s top ranking of its work environment is worth noting. Specifically, Gallup measured a number of workplace issues, for example, whether a worker has a trusting and open work environment and whether an employee is able to use their strengths to do what they do best every day. Employees rated Rhode Island as the worst work environment.

Overall, Colorado, Minnesota, Utah and Vermont join Hawaii as the country’s happiest states. At the bottom of the list? West Virginia joins Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee and Arkansas.

What Do You Need to Know?

If you have a choice, work in a location where you'll be happy.

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