The 12 Steps to Happiness That You Create (Infographic) This feeling that we all strive for is a path we choose, not a destination to arrive at.

By Jurgen Appelo Edited by Dan Bova

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Pixabay

You know what makes me happy? Learning.

I love understanding how the universe works, what makes people do the things they do, and figuring out how to improve myself. It gives me deep satisfaction. That's why I felt quite pleased with the results of my happiness research, which taught me a lot about happier workplaces.

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor, Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert, The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt, Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh and many online articles gave me plenty of insights during my research. I synthesized the results and created what I call the 12 steps to happiness.

Related: 27 Insights for Creating and Sustaining Workplace Happiness

The main thing I learned is that happiness is something you create -- it is not something to achieve. It is a path you choose, not a destination to arrive at. Check out each of the 12 steps:

12 Steps to Happiness

Those are the 12 steps to a happier workplace. I suggest you keep them in mind every day! Download the poster and put it up on the wall. And when you thank me for it, you will have already started properly.

In case you're interested in the bigger story, check out the full slide deck here:

Related: 15 Traits of Emotionally Wealthy People

Jurgen Appelo

Writer, Speaker, Entrepreneur, CEO of Happy Melly

Jurgen Appelo is CEO of the business network Happy Melly. He is an entrepreneur, speaker, illustrator and blogger and the author of Managing for Happiness.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Side Hustle

She Quit Her Job at Trader Joe's After Starting a Side Hustle With $800 — Then She and Her Brother Grew the Business to $20 Million

Jaime Holm and Matt Hannula teamed up to build a business in an industry that "didn't exist" yet.

Buying / Investing in Business

Former Zillow Execs Target $1.3T Market

Co-ownership is creating big opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Social Media

How To Start a Youtube Channel: Step-by-Step Guide

YouTube can be a valuable way to grow your audience. If you're ready to create content, read more about starting a business YouTube Channel.

Growing a Business

This Local Bakery Has Lines Out the Door. Here Are the Secrets to Its Success.

Known for its viral flat croissants and innovative desserts, Alexander's Patisserie also excels in hands-on leadership and team culture.

Business News

Microsoft Is Laying Off Over 6,000 Employees, About 3% of Its Workforce. Here's Why.

The company said the cuts will affect all divisions and locations, with a focus on managers.