Lately, it seems like “happiness” is everywhere – and not just because of that catchy tune by Pharrell. Maybe it’s because the economy is finally taking a turn for the better, but it seems everyone’s talking about the importance of happiness – heck, there’s even a “World Happiness Report.” Really.

With all this talk about happiness, I wasn’t too surprised when I saw this headline in my inbox late last week, sent to me from a friend: “Is work your happy place?” What DID surprise me was how much the premise of the article resonated with me and all of my other working-parent friends (moms and dads alike) copied on the email.

The article was reporting on new research that finds that people have significantly lower stress levels when they are at the office compared to their time at home. Right away, I responded “Yes! Totally! I can’t wait to go back into work on Monday morning and just take a breath from the weekend.” But then I wondered if I should feel a little bit guilty. Of course, I adore my kids and husband, but after a weekend full of play dates, birthday parties, cleaning the house, making meals, paying bills, etc., Monday morning at the office is a welcome respite. I look forward to the ritual of chatting with colleagues about their weekend and catching up on my emails while I sip coffee quietly at my desk.

Luckily, the article relieved some of my guilt. According to the study’s lead author, “The fact that people’s stress levels go down when they are at work, I don’t think it means that they don’t like their homes or their kids. (PHEW!) I think it suggests that there is something about work that is good for you. Being in the moment, focusing on a task, completing a task, socializing with co-workers – all of these are beneficial and that’s part of what’s lowering your stress.”

This suggests that the happiness is not just about physically being at work – it’s also about finding fulfillment in the work you’re doing. Here’s where companies come in. When people feel inspired and connected to the work they do, they’ll ultimately be even happier to come to work each day, and do better work while they’re there. Read on for some thoughts from our own Liz Kelly on how to help your people fall in love with their jobs. And then, get back to work. It’ll make you happy!