Joy On The Job – Creating a More Joyful Workplace

Take a minute to think about something that gives you joy – that little something that puts a smile on your face. Chances are that when you thought of joy your job wasn’t the first thing that came to mind. Joy and work don’t often go hand-in-hand. We all spend a lot of time at work. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could find joy in your job? 

Joy at work comes from the inside out, and it’s something you can create for yourself.  Most people feel happiest when they get a sense of meaning from their work. The feeling of accomplishment you get from a job well done is unmatched. But realistically, not every day is filled with a sense of accomplishment. The following tips can help you bring a little more joy into the most stressful of workdays. 

Create An ‘Office Nest’

Make your office space your own. Bring things that give you joy outside of work into your office space. Decorate your work area as much as your company policy permits, and make yourself as comfortable and relaxed as you can be in your office.

Find A Work Best Friend

Having a friend at work can help you stay more engaged and feel happier at work. Having friends at work can create a support system, improve collaboration and provide work satisfaction. 

Smile

Something as simple as smiling can improve your happiness at work because it tells your brain to be more happy–thanks to the release of endorphins, chemicals that fight off stress. Smiling is also contagious and will make your co-workers smile as well.

Say ‘Thank You’

Everyone likes to be appreciated. A simple thank you can heighten a person’s sense of self-worth. That thank you can also trigger helpful behaviors among your co-workers which makes the office a more pleasant place to be. 

Take A Breather

It’s incredibly easy to get burned out during the workday. That’s why you need to take a minute and breath before moving on to your next task. Not taking a breather can hinder your productivity, creativity, and overall mental health

Eat Healthy And Stay Hydrated

Maintaining a good diet and keeping yourself properly hydrated throughout your workday can make a big difference in your energy level and attitude. Instead of hitting the vending machine for lunch, have meals that involve healthy choices like lean meats, fruits, veggies, and nuts. Keeping your blood sugar in check can stop headaches and fatigue and help with concentration. 

Get Organized

Having an organized workplace can help you be better prepared and work more efficiently. It can also improve your happiness since a clean desk makes the work environment seem less hectic and stressful. You have enough stress with work, so avoid the additional stress that clutter and scrambling for lost items can cause.

Move Around

Find the time to take a walk outside, run up and down the stairs on your break, stretch, or do a 10-minute exercise. Moving around throughout the workday has a number of benefits. Sitting all day and working on a computer can lead to health concerns like weight gain, heart disease, eye strain, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Reflect On Your Day

Take a moment to reflect on your day. Note what went well during the workday and celebrate your accomplishments no matter how small. Record these moments in your notebook, smartphone, tablet, or computer so you’ll have a reminder of why your work matters to you. You can refer to these statements of positive reflection whenever you need a boost.

Most importantly, don’t forget that your mental health is just as important as the emails you send and the spreadsheets you create. Be aware of what makes you happy at work and take action to improve your level of joy on the job. 

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