Do you sometimes struggle to put a smile on your face at work? Are you occasionally bored with your job? Or do you get overwhelmed by your workload now and then?
Even the most motivated of us sometimes find work tedious or challenging. Fortunately, there are ways you can bring more positivity into your workday:
- Look on the bright side. When our mood dampens, we often only see the negative side of things – and that can make things worse. By training yourself to also recognize the positive aspects, you can motivate yourself and at the same time, gain more confidence. For example, if your supervisor gives you a difficult project, you might only see the challenges it entails. But the positive aspects are that your manager believes in your abilities – plus, successfully completing the project will result in another accomplishment to put on your résumé.
- Personalise your workspace. Whether you have your own office or a desk in an open-plan set-up, it’s important to personalize it with things that make you feel good. Decorate it with photos of your loved ones, pets or a memorable event like a fun vacation. Plus, according to Sophie Lee in her article “Why Indoor Plants Make You Feel Better” for NBC News, plants can boost your mood – so buy some indoor plants in colourful pots and put them on your desk.
- Listen to music. In her article “How Music Can Boost Your Mood” for PsychCentral, Julia Lehrman explains that listening to uplifting music can help silence negative thoughts and put you in a more positive mindset. In addition, according to a study in Nature Neuroscience, music stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, which enhances a feeling of wellbeing. Just pop in those earbuds and start listening to your favourite playlist!
- Do something nice for your coworkers. A study cited in Time revealed that people who were generous reported higher levels of happiness. In other words, bringing your coworkers coffee or helping a colleague who’s struggling with an assignment can boost your mood.
- Get some exercise. Exercise triggers the release of serotonin – another feel-good chemical – in the brain. So go for a brisk walk or hit the company gym during your lunch break – it’ll make you feel better!
With these pointers in mind, you’ll soon find you can boost your mood – and your energy levels! As a result, you’ll likely become more productive and empowered to take on even the most difficult of challenges.
