Book excerpt: The American workplace has become toxic to mental, emotional, and physical health. A book for our complex and challenging times, Happier at Work offers a practical path for leaders and employees to shift a culture of fear and reactivity to one of communication and collaboration. Mindfulness and compassion come naturally to all of us, as does a fundamental goodness; in these pages, readers will discover how to access that true nature. Van Gils also explores the science behind practices that not only decrease stress, overwhelm, and chronic illness but also develop authentic, emotionally fit leaders and a compassionate workplace. Accessible and inspiring, Happier at Work is a guide to a transformed workplace—one of enhanced creativity, innovation, engagement, performance, and joy!