Are you happy at work? Are we supposed to be? Don’t scroll yet.

What if we took that “happy” word that has so many meanings and consider this: what would happen if we took a different approach and planned for the pursuit of purpose while recognizing how we can find strength in our collective differences to improve our happiness?

Let me be clear. False happiness is worse than no happiness at all. If you are a person who is still working on finding your purpose, you are not alone. Even more, if you are not a “naturally sunshiney” personality, I would offer that greater self-awareness leads to greater discovery of purpose and yes – the elusive “happiness.”

Yet, how do we get that awareness? Over the last several years, the Color Code Personality Profile has been a tremendous tool in my self-awareness and growth. Back in 2017 (which really does feel like a lifetime ago!), my husband and I were listening to a Color Code speaker. I exclaimed, “I’m a Red! You’re a White! And this explains everything!” He agreed. It was a game changer.

I may be exaggerating a small bit, but not by much. Are you asking any of the following questions right now?

• How was it a game changer?

• What is the end goal of this blog?

• Why are you telling me this?

• Who are you?

If you tell me your Color Code profile, I can tell you which of these questions just might be the one you asked. Is the Color Code sorcery? Absolutely not. Self-fulfilling prophecy? Again, no. A strong communication tool that can be the linchpin for pursuing our purpose? Most definitely, yes!

So, what is one small thing each personality type can start working on to strive for a happier life or moving towards the pursuit of their innate purpose?

Let me start with the Reds. We most definitely are the ones that need to have a backup pair of Patience Pants! As a Red with a Secondary Blue, I will do much better with finding some value in the process itself, not just reaching the end goal! A Blue colleague who is married to a strong Red reminded me that the Red might lose heart if they do not see the value in the process. I need to remember that as I move from leaving a firm where I have been for 10 years to taking an advanced role elsewhere. Right now, I know my job well. I know who to call for help and am a regular resource for people of all levels. I have created and implemented valuable programs and helped people with their professional growth. While I made the decision to change (and keep my Blue limitations in check) to a new firm where I will be able to develop my natural leadership skills and be more deeply involved in a variety of programs, I have to remember a key rule of mine: Practice a beginner’s mindset. Be willing to suck at something new. Why? Because, as much as we Reds like to think we know it all, a self-aware Red will realize we do not.  And that improves my happiness.

For my friends who are a primary Blue — a decision to make this kind of move might look a little bit different! A Blue is often going to think about relationships, why the change, and potentially hyper-focus on the gravity of the decision. This can affect the happiness of the Blue — and yes — the happiness of those who are around them! Dear Blues (or those of us with a secondary….), may I offer this? It is a decision, not the end of the world. Feelings are not facts — so take some cues from your logical Red and White friends to look at the facts of your decision so that the fear (False Evidence Appearing Real) does not win. I once was told, “You cannot be curious and fearful at the same time.” Blues, Embrace the opportunity, trusting you will make a good decision, then enjoy the change you experience as much as you can. Be willing to know when you are leaning towards analysis paralysis. If you make a mistake (let me rephrase, when you make a mistake), give yourself grace. We must make mistakes to improve. And Blues, you are amazing with quality and process improvement! Consider these adjustments to moving towards better things. Be cognizant of not taking the pivots and twists personally so you can keep your self-esteem intact. You are valuable and here for a reason. Always remember — you do not always get to know the “why” to it all. Seek out that logical friend who can provide the clarity you need in the midst of the emotions you feel. By accepting the flaws, your happiness will increase.

Speaking of our logical White friends, we need you and your lovely spirit of peace! Your superpower is the ability to provide clarity in a complicated situation. You are a gift to this world. What we also encourage and need you to do: Speak up. Branch out. Shake it up. I know, I know. I was recently coaching a person with the primary White personality. They are about to complete their degree and are looking for their first job in the field. When I sent them several names of people to contact, I had to remember that while this may be natural for some of us, I was suggesting some very unusual and scary action for many with this personality profile. Ask others who do not know me for information? Get help instead of just giving up? Potentially be uncomfortable? Yes. Yes. Yes. Why? Because it is going to help you move to a great next step for which you have worked so hard. By taking small risks, you will build confidence to do the scary things — like getting that new position or asking for a raise or networking to find a new organization. A Red can be your best ally in this. Be sure to tell them what you need, indicate when you need a break, and let them engage you into more confidence than you can imagine! That next job could be a game changer!

My last thought for these patient folks: Silence is not always golden. By not speaking up for yourself and your needs, people will assume you are fine. Happy with the money you make. Happy with your present position. Happy as you are. However, I know from experience that once you recognize your amazing self fully that you will move into your innate purpose, too!

Last, but never least, let us talk about Yellows. You may love change! Adventure! New things! If you have a strong secondary, ensure you learn the nuances of the strengths and limitations of your secondary color. Character counts and you may need the “d” word. D? D as in discipline. By adding just a little to your repertoire, it will help you move forward even more and can influence your happiness! And, when you feel yourself getting down or having an experience where you may not feel like your typical “sunshiney self,” advocate for yourself and accept that you may have to let someone know. It is ok not to feel fun all the time. It is ok if you cannot bring your typical joy. Let your people know you need some space to build back your energy. During that season, allow yourself not to dwell on how you “look” — remember your other strengths, such as inclusion. The joy you get from helping others not to always dwell on every hard thing. Do this for yourself, too.

How to conclude this? Learn your Color Code personality. It is not your identity nor the key to happiness. It is a tool in your toolbox for successful living that can lead to greater purpose and true joy. However you define happiness and purpose, may I offer, success in this is meant to be with others. We are better together.

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Kelly L. Knowles is a senior trainer at a regional law firm, where she develops and provides technical and professional skills training to all levels of the organization. Kelly is also an adjunct instructor in the Business Management department at MTSU. In 2017, Kelly obtained a Color Code certification and began Kelly K. Consulting. Kelly K. Consulting focuses on helping individuals and teams discover, develop, and dig into their inner leader. She guides this through one-on-one and group coaching as well as through corporate team training.