A recent study from Gallup found that unhappy employees outnumber happy employees two to one worldwide. Based on reviews that took place in 142 countries and contained approximately 180 million employees, only “13 percent of employees worldwide are happily engaged at work.”
Maybe you didn’t need the statistics to know that so many people aren’t enjoying themselves at work. But with so much time being spent there, what can be done to turn the tide? Check out these proven tips:
1. Create your own nest
Make your own space, decorate your area, and make yourself as comfortable and relaxed as you can be in your office.
2. Find your work best friend
Having a best friend at work can turn a moderately engaged worker into a highly engaged worker. When workers are engaged in friendships, they contribute more to the bottom line.
Christine Riordan states in the Harvard Business Review that employees who “have friends at work perceive their job as more fun, enjoyable, worthwhile and satisfying.” Furthermore, having friends at work can create a support system, communal and a sense of loyalty.
3. Smile
Something as simple as smiling can improve your happiness at work because it tells your brain to be happier. Smiling is also contagious and will make your co-workers smile as well.
4. Take a breather
It’s incredibly easy to get burned out during the workday. That’s why you need to take a minute and breathe before moving on to your next task.
5. Reward yourself
It doesn’t matter if it’s by going out to dinner with your significant other, purchasing a new gadget, enjoying a piece of candy, or patting yourself on the back. Find the time to reward yourself after you’ve completed a project or had a productive day.
6. Reflect on the day
Why are you working so hard? You can answer that question by reflecting on the day and recalling something that was positive. When you record these moments in your notebook, smartphone, and tablet, you’ll have a reminder of why your work matters to you.
Maybe it’s merely time for a change? If so, HTG is a great place to work. Find your fit and check out the current openings!
Gabriella Pruchniewicz