7 Words the Happiest People Use at Work

1. Joyous

A good place to start when it comes to being happy at work: try using words to convey that feeling directly. Saying you are looking forward to a "joyous" day on a project or have some "joyous" news for the staff means you want to spread some happiness around the entire room. The word itself means you are full of joy--e.g., it's just spilling over.

2. Pumped

It's tempting to use the word "pumped" too often, but here's what I like about it. If you say you are "pumped" about a presentation, it means are looking forward to it so much that you can barely contain yourself. (The word literally means to be filled with excitement.) It shows people you have an attitude of expectation.

3. Motivated

Have you noticed there's a way to say the word M-O-T-I-V-A-T-E-D in an exaggerated way? If you stop by the cubicle of a co-worker and say you are M-O-T-I-V-A-T-E-D you are communicating a few things about your state of mind, your ambitions, and your job. Mostly, you are communicating that you are moving forward with a positive bent.

4. Relish

Not to be confused with the pickled accoutrement, if you say you "relish" the opportunity to do a sales call or "relish" those after-work meet-ups, you are letting people know you are not doing those activities by rote. People who "relish" are happy with life in general.

5. Sanguine

Did you know the word "sanguine" has a particular meaning? It doesn't just mean you are content. It means you are content in the midst of chaos or disappointment. People who are happy at work maintain that disposition no matter what happens.

6. Copacetic

Try using the word "copacetic" in casual conversation. Be careful to avoid sounding condescending or sarcastic. Use the term to imply that the project and the team is getting along, that you are happy with the results, and everything is in harmony.

7. Perfect

I have a friend who likes to say "perfect" when he agrees with an idea or plan, especially as a single word response. Can we get lunch today? "Perfect," he'll say. What does it mean? To me, he wants to spread his happiness. The synergies between us have aligned.