Does work have you down? Well, you’re in good company.
85% of people are either dissatisfied with their current job or feel disengaged from their workplace.
While there’s no making up for a bad boss or career coach, taking certain steps in the workplace can make a huge difference in your overall happiness.
Ready to stop hating your job? Keep reading to learn how to be happy at work.
1. Learn How You Communicate
Remember that old song “If If You’re Happy and You Know It?”
If you can get past the cheese factor, there’s a pretty good message behind it. If you’re unhappy at your job, there’s a good chance that it’s coming through in your communication.
That’s not limited to verbal communication, either. So much of how we communicate comes across in non-verbal cues like our body language, eye contact, and even how we dress.
If you’re sending the wrong messages, it can lead to some sticky situations. People may avoid you at work, or your communications with others can turn shallow and ineffective.
There’s no doubt about it, communication in business is huge. So much so that there’s an entire USC MSAP program dedicated to bettering workplace communications.
Making even a few small changes in your communication style can have plenty of positive benefits.
2. Make Time for Your Hobbies
Hobbies are an essential part of a happy, fulfilled life. If you’re spending all of your time working, you’re more likely to burn out or submit subpar work.
Never skip out on making time for the things you love. Give yourself at least an hour per day after work to enjoy your hobbies and you’ll feel happier at work in no time
Hobbies, like playing video games or listening to music, can improve your mood, productivity, and focus.
3. Leave Work at Work
The standard 9-to-5 is little more than a myth these days. Many people feel pressured to continue working outside of the standard business day.
While there’s no harm in returning a quick email or sending a business-related text here or there, this ‘always on’ mindset leads to stress.
With the exception of emergencies, leave work for the office. When you arrive home, focus on recouping and relaxing after your long day. You’ve earned it!
4. Take Regular Breaks
Hanging around the water cooler isn’t just a great way to form connections with your coworkers—it’s a good way to unwind for a few minutes, too.
Working through the day may seem like a good idea, but it can lead to fatigue.
Give yourself at least a few short breaks throughout the day. Ideally, do something away from your desk that involves easy physical movements.
A few quick laps around the office can reframe your thinking and help you clear your head.
5. Give Tons of Compliments
Try and give out at least one compliment per day. Doing so will boost office morale, and soon you’ll notice that your workplace is happier, more relaxed, and much more enjoyable.
In turn, this will help you feel happier.
How to Be Happy at Work: Final Thoughts
With so much of the workforce feeling tired and frustrated, learning these tips on how to be happy at work is crucial. Following these techniques can improve the lives of yourself, your coworkers, and even your interpersonal relationships.
You may also want to speak with your employer about remote access technology. Click here to find out how it can improve your work-life balance.