LMS on The Science of Happiness: Why Positive Emotion Is the Key to Leadership Success

L. Michelle Smith argues that in today’s high-pressure professional environment, the ability to lead effectively often hinges on an unexpected factor: happiness. Far from being a superficial concept, happiness—grounded in the science of positive psychology—is a deliberate practice that can transform leadership and drive organizational success. For women leaders, particularly women of color navigating systemic challenges, embracing happiness as a tool for empowerment and resilience has never been more vital.

Here’s how leaders can leverage the power of positive emotion to build stronger teams, create inclusive cultures, and sustain their own well-being.

Happiness Fuels Leadership Success

Positive psychology tells us that happy people are more successful, not the other way around. Yet many leaders approach happiness as a reward for achievements rather than the foundation of them. Women leaders, research suggests, are uniquely positioned to cultivate this dynamic. Countries led by women score higher on happiness indices, reflecting a correlation between well-being and effective leadership.

“Happiness requires intentionality,” Smith explains. Leaders must actively cultivate positivity within themselves and their teams, creating environments where optimism and collaboration thrive—even in adversity.

(Read More at The WIE Suite)