Joy in work might seem like an idea that’s superficial or unattainable — especially in a pandemic. But in times like these, it’s more important than ever.

Joy in work is about being connected with what you do and why you do it. It’s the feeling of success and fulfillment that comes from doing work that matters. It connects us with colleagues and patients through a sense of shared purpose.

Joy in work is practical and science-based, according to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, which has taken the lead in researching the subject. Joy in work produces tangible results: Studies link it to reduced turnover, higher productivity, and improved patient experience, outcomes and safety.

It doesn’t turn every workday into a breeze. There still will be fatigue, long hours and tough days.

But cultivating joy in work creates the deep engagement that helps keep stress from turning into burnout — which was a serious issue in U.S. health care even before COVID-19 arrived on the scene.

For everyone’s benefit, let’s nurture it at Kaiser Permanente.

What brings you joy in work? Use the stories, tips and tools on these pages to explore that question — on your own and with your team. Work together to create joy in work.

Tips and Tools

Cultivate Joy in Work with these tools. And meet the Humans of Partnership who are finding fullfilment, even in challenging times 

Tips for Teams 

Tips for Team Members

A Guide to Making Every Moment Count 

Humans of Partnership: Marianne Evans 

Humans of Partnership: Joanna Pantig