You might be getting started on a new job or might be slogging it out in your current one for years now. Things can get difficult and it is important to accept them. But spending 8 to 10 hours of your day at a place you don’t enjoy affects you in more ways than one.
That is why it is important to like if not love your work. And how can you do that? Here’s the solution:
Change your mindset
Human beings are “thinkers.” We think about our jobs. We talk to ourselves about our jobs. However, if you do not enjoy your work, it’s about time you change the way you think about your job. There are two ways to do so:
- There might be zillions of things you hate about your job, but there must be a few you like about it. Think about those good things. Maybe the working hours are good, or a few of your colleagues are great, or maybe the cafeteria food is amazing, or maybe the work itself challenges and stimulates you. Whenever you head to your work, think about the good parts. It’s motivating.
- Look at the bigger picture. The salary credit message at the end of the month helps you do and have so many things that you otherwise might not be able to enjoy. Your job is the source of so many great things in your life. It is the means to many of your ends.
Better Your Skills
It’s perfectly okay to not know things. You are not going to master all the skills in day one. However, you must learn as you go. Work on your skills. If you are good at your job, it will be less of a burden.
List down areas you need to improve and figure out ways how you can do so. Ask questions. Come up with ideas. Look at it the other way round. When you know everything, you won’t have anything to look forward to. The idea of endless amazing things to explore is exciting, isn’t it?
Take Breaks
Your organization might expect you to deliver more, and deliver every single time. But take it easy, darling! You ain’t a robo. You are a human being. Taking mini-breaks in between your work not just breaks the monotony but also improves your performance. Talk to your coworkers, have a cup of coffee, or take a short stroll. These little things go a long way in rejuvenating you!
Extend a Helping Hand
Things might be tough for you but they could be equally tough for someone else. Help someone who needs it. You may have new joiners at your workplace. Get them to find their foot in the organization. When you make others feel comfortable at a place, you also feel more comfortable than you actually are. So, there are twin benefits.
Talk it Out
Talking helps a great deal, be it in your personal life or professional relationships. You might be terrified of your boss. But knock on his cabin and walk in. Discuss your ideas, areas where you need help, and seek suggestions. A great mentor can help you navigate through.
Also, not to forget, avoid negativity around you. There are people who may want to pull you down. Don’t let external forces destabilize your internal equilibrium.
Declutter your life
Declutter your workspace, your tasks, and your mind. This gives clarity and makes things easier to handle. Also, learn to prioritize. There might be dozens of tasks piled up. Take them up one by one priority-wise.
Look Beyond Work
A friend once quipped that if we depend on one aspect of our life too much, our expectations increase. It is true on so many levels. Your work is a part of your life; it is not your life. You are more than what you do in your office cubicle. Remember that.
So, have a life beyond your work. Don’t let your work define you. Look forward to things that you can do after your work. Some things that you can do are meeting or speaking to your loved ones, exploring the city, or pursuing your hobbies.
So, let’s start loving what we do and doing what we love. Happy working!