It pays to be happy: The career strategy no-one teaches you

What if career success wasn't about working harder, chasing the next promotion or waiting until you reach a particular milestone before allowing yourself to feel fulfilled?

That was the challenge at the heart of our latest Personal Excellence Programme (PEP), where career strategist, speaker and bestselling author Bex Galligan encouraged attendees to rethink what career success really looks like. Hosted by Siobhan Moran, Development Lead at WIBF and Chair of WIBF Northern Ireland, and supported by Leandra Catton and our partners at Citi, the session explored how placing happiness at the centre of career decisions can lead not only to greater wellbeing, but also stronger performance, confidence and long-term success.

Rather than viewing happiness as a reward that comes after achieving career goals, Bex argued that it should become the foundation for building a sustainable and fulfilling career. Through a series of thought-provoking exercises, attendees were encouraged to reflect on whether they were truly in control of their career or simply following opportunities and expectations set by others.

Central to the session was Bex's "Promotion Pyramid", a practical framework that challenges professionals to consider three key areas: understanding themselves, choosing the right environment and organisation, and ensuring their strengths and impact are visible to others. She highlighted the importance of moving beyond simply working hard, instead focusing on demonstrating value, understanding personal strengths and aligning career choices with individual values, priorities and the life they want to lead.

The session also explored why careers should be viewed as evolving journeys rather than a series of promotions. As our personal circumstances change, so too should our definition of success. Participants were encouraged to think about the work that energises them, the environments in which they thrive and the importance of finding organisations whose culture genuinely aligns with their own values.

Throughout the event, attendees were invited to pause, reflect and answer questions for themselves, making the session both practical and highly personal. The discussion concluded with a lively Q&A, where participants explored how these ideas could be applied within their own careers and workplaces.

A huge thank you to Bex Galligan for sharing such practical, honest and thought-provoking insights, to Siobhan Moran for expertly hosting the session, to Leandra Catton and Citi for partnering with WIBF to bring this event to our community, and to everyone who joined and contributed to the discussion.

If you couldn't attend live - or would like to revisit Bex's practical exercises and career framework- the recording is well worth watching. Whether you're considering your next move, reflecting on your current role or simply looking to build a career that's both successful and sustainable, this session offers plenty of valuable insights to take away.

Members, please login to view this video.

If you aren't a member and would like to join WIBF for access to our events and member benefits, please visit this page.