Workplace Well-Being Through the Lens of Positive Psychology: Integrating Gratitude, Stress, Flow and Optimism for Advancing SDG 8

Abstract

Workplace well-being is a critical factor in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8), which promotes decent work and economic growth. This integrative review synthesizes current evidence on four key positive psychology constructs—gratitude, stress resilience, flow, and optimism—and their collective impact on workplace well-being. Drawing on a structured literature review and critical appraisal of measurement frameworks, intervention strategies, and implementation challenges, the paper proposes a comprehensive, evidence-based framework for advancing workplace well-being aligned with SDG 8. Findings highlight that multi-level, co-designed interventions addressing both individual and organizational factors yield the most sustainable improvements. Barriers such as resource constraints, organizational culture, and the science-practice gap are discussed alongside facilitators including leadership support and continuous evaluation. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations for organizations, policymakers, and researchers, emphasizing culturally sensitive, context-specific approaches and the integration of rigorous measurement and evaluation. This work contributes to the growing discourse on positive workplace psychology and offers a roadmap for fostering healthy, productive, and inclusive work environments globally.