How to create happiness at work | Present Perfect Podcast

What does it really mean to be happy at work?
In this episode, Aurelie Litinsky — author of 100 Ideas for a Positive Work Culture and certified Chief Happiness Officer — joins Ksenija Korolova to unpack the science of happiness, emotional intelligence, and what great leaders do differently.

They discuss why “toxic positivity” fails, how small daily rituals change brain chemistry, and how leaders can build teams that thrive — even under pressure.

💡 You’ll learn:

The simple “highlight of the day” habit to rewire your brain
Why happiness drives productivity more than engagement
How to stay realistic without becoming negative
Tools for stress, focus, and avoiding burnout
Why women’s emotional intelligence is a 2025 leadership superpower
How to recognise (and fix) hidden toxicity at work
One daily habit every manager should start tomorrow

🎙 “Emotions are contagious — so choose which ones you spread.”

00:00 – Aurelie Litinsky on why she wrote 100 Ideas for a Positive Work Culture
02:30 – The “Highlight of the Day” practice and the science behind positivity
04:40 – Realistic optimism vs. toxic positivity
07:10 – How happiness impacts productivity and creativity
10:10 – Emotional intelligence, women, and leadership in the age of AI
15:00 – Building stress-management toolboxes that actually work
18:15 – Hybrid work, flexibility, and why open offices drain energy
20:40 – Recognising hidden toxicity and protecting your wellbeing
24:20 – Growth mindset and becoming self-aware as a leader
25:25 – The one daily leadership habit that improves team happiness