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Five ways to fall in love with your job
Take responsibility for your stress level- Stress is a killer, literally. Out of control stress can rob you of physical and mental health, cause you to make poor decisions, negatively impact your relationships at work and at home, and make you no fun to be around.
How many times have you blamed your boss, co-workers, workload, traffic, etc for all the stress you are experiencing each day? Here's a secret: YOU are responsible for your stress and for doing something about it. Stress is not caused by events outside you, but by your reaction to those events.
If you want to love your job, be proactive and control your stress. If you need help, there are lots of great books, articles, and people who can help you.
Honor your values- Find ways to add more of what you like to your current job. Be creative here. For example, if you love meeting new people but work in an isolated office, volunteer for committees, conferences, or to help out at events in your building or community. If helping others is your passion, find a way to add some helping to your daily routine.
Having a clear idea of what makes you the happiest will help you add those ingredients to spice up your current job and make it more satisfying.
Focus on the good things your job gives you- Create a list and keep it in an accessible spot. Review this list at least once a week.
Being aware and grateful for the positive aspects of your job will improve your attitude. That positive attitude will translate into better job performance, stronger relationships with supervisors and co-workers, and increased self confidence.
Think WOW- The quality of your work matters. Doing your very best at whatever task you are given is not only good for your employer, it is great for your attitude. Doing your very best increases your feelings of pride, self confidence, and investment in your career.
Add joy and comfort on a daily basis- Find little ways to make your workspace feel warm and inviting. After all, if you spend 2080 hours per year at work, why not make that environment as wonderful as possible ?
Take a look at your workspace. Is it clean, organized, personalized, comfortable? If not, schedule some time on your calendar to make it that way.
I know someone who keeps a small photo of the ocean on his desk so that when he is ready to explode, he can take a mini-vacation in his mind. Other people rely on family photos, candy, humorous calendars, scented lotion, or tangible reminders of their accomplishments to make their workspace nuturing.
Try these strategies over the next month and just notice how you are shifting what you feel and think about your job. Do you feel an increase in your level of satifaction? Can you love your job....or even like it enough to stop dreading Monday mornings? In today's economy, holding on to the job you have may be your wisest course of action.
About the Author
Lynne Klippel is a certified coach and an occupational therapist. Lynne has a bachelor's degree in education and a master's degree in occupational therapy. She holds several coaching certifications, completing post-graduate training at Comprehensive Coaching University. She provides coaching services to individuals and corporations by inspiring greatness, creating opportunities, and celebrating success. Her passion is helping people grow and overcome challenges.
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