Even though the job market has gotten better, it’s still difficult securing a solid job. As a result, many people are taking jobs they wouldn’t normally take — and they’re dreading work each day. While you shouldn’t stay in a job that makes you miserable, there are many ways to find some joy in the job you already have.
1. Focus on the Positives
The biggest way you can enjoy your job more is to focus on the aspects you enjoy. Are there certain tasks you prefer over others? If so, reach out to your boss and see if there’s a way you can do more work associated with the jobs you enjoy.
Additionally, look at other parts of your job you enjoy. For example, maybe there is a group of co-workers you enjoy completing projects with. Perhaps you have casual Fridays where you can dress more comfortably. It’s better for you to focus on the things you enjoy instead of dwelling on the negatives.
2. Avoid Negativity
There will always be some things you can’t avoid. What you can do about that is change your perspective on them. Instead of constantly brooding over the parts of the job that you hate, you can tell yourself once you finish this task you can do something you enjoy more.
Avoiding negativity also means avoiding negative people. If you surround yourself by negative people, you will end up just like them.
3. Learn New Things
Complacency is dangerous in any worker. Brushing up on information in your job field can benefit you in many ways. In addition to learning more about the career you’ve pursued, you can actually be more valuable to your company by learning more about your field.
From setting up Google alerts to browsing you company’s resources, you can find many options for learning new things. Additionally, taking classes at a local college in a related field can be beneficial for you.
4. Ask For New Tasks
Doing the same thing day after day can be tedious no matter how much you enjoy your job — and if you don’t like it, then the repetition makes it that much worse. Reach out to your supervisor or boss and explain that you’re willing to take on different responsibilities or try out something new. They’ll appreciate your willingness to take on new tasks and you’ll be able to mix up your normal routine.
5. Try Working from Home
Thanks to computers and the Internet, working from home has never been easier. More and more companies are recognizing the benefits of working from home and, as a result, are more willing to let employees telecommute. Working from home can be less stressful and you can work at your own pace, rather than feeling pressured by co-workers or bosses hovering nearby. Look into your company’s policies for working from home and see if it’s a possibility for you.
6. Declutter Your Space
Some people thrive in a cluttered workspace — however, many people are subconsciously affected by having a messy workspace. If you have piles of paperwork and folders, it can stress you out more than a clean desk. Take the time to organize your work. Put finished papers away or file your unfinished work with a system you’ll understand.
This can extend to the entire office as well. If you find your department’s organization is nonexistent, it might not be a bad idea to suggest a new system that could benefit everyone in the office.
7. Be Environmentally Conscious
As previously mentioned, paperwork can cause more stress than you’d imagine. Many companies that are getting labeled as environmentally friendly are keeping their work digital — computers, tablets and smartphones are replacing old-school practices. Look for ways you can cut down on your paper trail. You’ll feel happier and better about your work when you’re cutting down on environmental waste.
8. Decorate Your Work Space
If your workspace is a cubicle, you’re probably surrounded by dull gray walls for eight hours every day. If you want to enjoy your job more, surround yourself by the things you love. Hang up pictures of your friends and family or print funny work-appropriate images to decorate your space. Keeping a plant at your desk can help brighten your mood by adding color and reducing your stress. Make your cubicle a space you’d want to work in for the day.
You’re not going to enjoy every aspect of your job. However, if you make an effort to be happy rather than focus on the parts you hate, you might find you enjoy your job more than you realized.
