We spend a lot of time at work, from Monday to Friday probably more waking time in the office than with our families and loved ones. If we are to cope with this, we have to make sure we make the most out of our work time and enjoy it.
1. Positivity and smiling
Positive thinking can feel labored at times but has been proven to work in multiple studies. Smiling is infectious and is the simple form of positivity that uses what psychologists refer to as the theory of self-perception (if you see yourself as happy, you will become happy). Being positive leads to efficiency and well being for yourself and the people around you. When you radiate positivity in an office, others will be picked up as a result. When trying this out, make sure you stay away from any negative people as they are bound to bring you down.
2. Moving around
Walk the stairs instead of taking the elevator in the mornings, go for a walk at lunch, and walk around the office when making phone calls. Energy comes from oxygen, oxygen comes from motion so the more you move about, the more energy you get. I don’t know about you, but when I have lots of energy I tend to be a happy camper.
3. Declutter
There are books dedicated to this single point. Make sure you have a clean workspace and environment around you. Clutter brings you down on a subconscious level – it looks like even more work to be done. Have a clear structure and organization on your desk so you can swiftly leave a task and come back to it later. You should also have an effective workflow and make use of in- and out-boxes.
4. Change your routine
The same old routine day in and day out will wear you down slowly. Try using a different pen, have tea instead of coffee, change your telephone greeting, etc, and see how it feels. Variety is the spice of life they say, this applies to work as well. Big corporations shuffle things around all the time, even if a division is performing it can always do with a shake-up and change things – so can you.
5. Eat quality food
Have a proper breakfast and lunch, with high-quality food that will provide you with energy throughout the day. If you want snacks in between, stay away from chocolate, candy, and sodas. The sugar levels in these products will give you a buzz from which you will come crashing down only a few minutes later. You don’t want to give yourself mood swings by having the wrong type of food. Stay on the healthy and nutritious side and you will feel better and have more overall energy (and you will be happier with your body as a result).
6. Go on vacation!
If all else fails, get yourself out of the office for a few days and recharge your batteries. Switch off completely, turn off any handheld devices, and just relax. You will come back with a new perspective on things and you will be a happy person, hopefully with lots of great memories to share.
Can you think of any other simple steps?
