It’s a proven fact that a business with happy employees is more productive than those that don’t. Some go to great lengths to keep their employees happy with benefits, perks, and incentives. But as employees, how do you motivate yourself? Here are the best ways to be happy at work:
Enjoy What You Do
There’s this saying, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life.” The key to achieving this is to find work that you enjoy. However, not everyone is blessed with the opportunity to do what they love. In case you can’t choose the job you have, you will need to look at the brighter side of things and find something to be happy about in what you do.
You’re Challenged
If being unmotivated is what’s keeping you from being happy at work, try to challenge yourself. You can do this by asking your immediate superior about work that you can do that’s different from what you’re currently doing. Or, you can do it yourself by adding challenges to what you do every day, e.g., finish a certain task in under an hour instead of two.
Find a Job That Provides Balance
A good balance of work and personal life is what most people who are happy at work have. Strive to have that by finding a job that lets you do so. Find a job that enables you to have time outside of work and allows you to do things you’re passionate about.
Even if you don’t love what you’re doing, having a great work-life balance can compensate for this. Choose a company that will give you the weekends for family and friends, ample vacation days, and a fixed time to let you come home to spend with your kids.
Encourage Honest Feedback
Ask for feedback frequently. Speak to your team leader or manager and request that they give you their honest feedback. This will help you improve where you’re lacking or do more of what you do best. This is a great morale booster and motivator as you feel valued as part of the team.
If your position entails dealing with customers, check their reviews and feedback. This can reinforce positivity or allow you to understand gaps that you need to work on. Knowing that you’re contributing well to your company adds to that happy feeling while you’re at work.
Invest in Your Personal and Professional Growth
Take that painting class, ask your boss for assignments that will let you set a milestone, or train in a different department. All these can help you have variety at work and avoid the doldrums. Also, taking charge of your growth personally or professionally is something you can take with you wherever you go, regardless of the company.
Avoid Negativity
It’s so easy to get caught up with office politics or into the lives of other co-workers. These circumstances cause negativity, which you should avoid 100% to be happy at work. Distance yourself from that negative person who tries to bring you down along with their downfall.
Take Short Breaks Regularly
A 10 to 15-minute break is enough to perk you up and reset your mood. You can do some stretching, walking, or a bit of exercising—anything to keep your mind off work and refreshes you when you get back.
Build a Network
Make friends, build connections, do some networking that can keep work-life light and meaningful. In the event that you don’t like your job, the people around you can make it worth your while. Also, find mentors that let you get expert advice and help make work easier to do.
