In the Wylde blog this week, we’re touching on a rather controversial trending topic regarding people being at their best first thing in the day! The latest research suggests people feel the best about themselves and their lives in the morning and worst around midnight. Scientists analysed 1 million responses by 50,000 people over two years – answering questions about their feelings. The results suggest that individuals report feeling best about their happiness and life satisfaction on Mondays and Fridays, and less so on Sundays. People felt more depressed, anxious and lonely in the winter and perhaps unsurprisingly, people generally felt better in the summer. So, with these results in mind – how can we use this information to help aid our productivity in the workplace, be it at home or in the office?

It seems our moods are not just tied to what we’re doing but also when we’re doing it. If mornings really are the prime time for feeling good, it stands to reason that aligning our most important tasks with this natural boost could be key to a more productive day. Instead of using the morning to slog through emails or mindless admin, perhaps it’s time to tackle the projects that require creativity, problem-solving, or strategic thinking. After all, if our happiness and life satisfaction are at their peak, why not channel that positivity into our work?

Interestingly, Mondays and Fridays come out on top in terms of happiness levels, which might seem counterintuitive at first. Mondays, often synonymous with the dreaded return to work, might actually offer a fresh start, a sense of new possibilities, and a structured routine after the weekend. Fridays, on the other hand, carry the anticipation of the weekend, wrapping up the week’s work with a sense of accomplishment. Sundays, however, appear to be the emotional low point for many, possibly due to the looming return to the workweek and the end of personal time.

Seasonal changes also play a significant role in our overall mood. Winter’s shorter days and colder weather often bring about feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness, while summer’s longer, sunnier days tend to lift our spirits. This fluctuation in mood could be harnessed in the workplace through flexible schedules, encouraging outdoor breaks when possible, and fostering a supportive environment during the darker months. Simple adjustments, like making the most of natural light, incorporating more social activities, or even adjusting workloads seasonally, can make a noticeable difference.

So, what does this all mean for productivity? It’s about recognising these natural rhythms and working with them rather than against them. Scheduling demanding tasks for the morning, planning key meetings for the start or end of the week, and being mindful of the seasonal shifts in mood can all contribute to a more effective and happier work life. Whether you’re logging in from your home office or commuting to the workplace, understanding how your mood fluctuates throughout the day and year could be the secret to unlocking your best self.

At Wylde, we design beautiful, practical and sustainable spaces that support people to work, learn and live better. Whether your business is expanding, you’re moving premises, or you feel you could make better use of the space you have – the Wylde team are here to help – just get in touch!