Unhappy at work, but not sure how to fix it?
Sometimes even the best of jobs can have their slumps. We spend so much of our time at work, and it’s easy to forget that our mental health is just as important as the documents we draft and reports we email.
Check out these ways to be happier in the office, from simple things that you can do right now, to things you can start to implement over a longer period of time, for the good of your long-term well-being.
Get organized
Having an organized workspace should help you be better prepared and work more efficiently. It can also improve your happiness since a ‘clean desk equals a clear mind’. Avoid the additional hectic-ness and stress that clutter can cause.
Leave personal problems at home
It’s easy to carry your personal life over into your professional life, but attending personal matters before heading out for your workday, if at all possible, should help you focus during your work hours.
Make yourself at home
The average Canadian will spend 3,507 days at work including 204 days of overtime in their lifetime, a new survey from Forbes.ca claims. The poll also found that the average Canadian worker will put in 34 hours and 26 minutes of work a week, totaling 1,791 hours a year and 84,171 hours in the course of their career. Since you spend so much time at work, if possible, try and make your space your own, decorate your area as much as your company policy permits, and make yourself as comfortable and relaxed as you can be in your office.
Maintain a work life balance
All work and no play is not a recipe for happiness. If you’re finding yourself working all the time, you may need to make adjustments and put some boundaries in place. Some jobs are more demanding than others, hours wise, but there may be ways to work around this, such as requesting to work from home. It also goes without saying that spending time with your family and friends on the weekend can help you recharge for the week ahead.
Move around
Whether it’s taking a minute or two to stretch your legs outside or popping into the kitchen to make a cup, moving around throughout the workday can make a big difference. Sitting all day without any exercise at all could lead to eye strain, weight gain and many other possible health concerns. In short, moving around should help you feel better, which should make you feel like you’re in a better place mood-wise too.
Reward yourself
When you feel like you’ve outdone yourself, why not treat yourself? Whether it’s grabbing something extra special for lunch or purchasing something from your fav shop, find the time to reward yourself after you’ve successfully completed a project or a difficult task, or just because
Socialize & Smile!
Remember to smile. Something so simple, yet so effective. Smile and tell your brain to be more happy, thanks to the release of neuropeptides. It’s also pretty contagious, so not only will it make you happy, but hopefully your co-workers too.
Eat healthy & stay hydrated
Ensure you are keeping energy levels high by maintaining a good diet and keeping yourself properly hydrated throughout your working day. Eating foods that keep your blood sugar within a normal range should help stop headaches and fatigue, as well as help you concentrate better.