The Fourth Dimension of Happiness and Work Satisfaction

Happiness and work satisfaction have been the focus of many studies in the last decade. The literature suggests three main dimensions of the quest for happiness ― pleasure, meaning, and engagement. While goal setting has been identified as a prominent process that may support happiness as well as work satisfaction, it has never been addressed as a dimension in the quest for happiness. This study addressed the literature gap, by presenting empirical evidence for the fourth dimension and its effect on work satisfaction. Based on 1077 respondents, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) followed by Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were employed. Results confirm the existence of an independent fourth dimension, and its effect on job satisfaction and happiness. Although goal setting is a prominent construct to achieve happiness, especially in western culture, this is the first study that validates it as the fourth dimension in the search for happiness, followed by practical implications in the workforce.