Whether you work in a hospital or supermarket, you can make your job more meaningful. According to some studies, nearly two thirds of Americans are dissatisfied at work. While you probably need your boss to approve a raise or a bigger office, these are some adjustments you can make on your own. Take a look at these 5 ideas for putting more purpose into your job.
Serve Others:
1. Help your coworkers. Our relationships with our colleagues play a big role in our happiness at work. Pitch in with assembling press packages or proofreading the annual report. Share your sandwich when your office mate is stuck on a conference call during lunch.
2. Create a great customer experience. You can brighten someone’s day by going the extra mile to help them feel delighted with their purchase. Take time to answer their questions and point out helpful features. Thank them warmly for doing business with you.
3. Advance the organizational mission. If your employer benefits society, you can find gratification in being part of the team. Maybe you raise awareness about lung cancer or design safer cars.
Develop Your Talents:
1. Strengthen your communication skills. Communicating effectively is a requirement for almost any job. Ask for feedback about how you come across in writing and in person.
2. Practice your leadership skills. Strategic thinking and inspiring others are valuable traits at every stage in your career. Welcome projects that give you a chance to rehearse for future challenges.
3. Sign up for training. Take advantage of opportunities for life long learning. Study a foreign language or master a new software program.
Express Your Creativity:
1. Upgrade your presentations. Make the most of your reporting responsibilities. Dazzle your supervisor with a multimedia presentation and compelling graphics when they ask you to research recycling vendors or conference venues.
2. Start an ambiance committee. Attractive and neat surroundings aid productivity and morale. Suggest forming a committee to make recommendations on how to beautify the office. Coordinate a company-wide cleanup day.
3. Share your hobby. Welcome your passions into the workplace. You could bring in flowers from your garden or take photographs at special events.
Have Fun:
1. Plan a party. Organize birthday parties for your department. Offer a surprise breakfast to celebrate National Dance Like a Chicken Day.
2. Promote good health. Encourage friendships and fitness. Put together a company soft ball team. Negotiate a group discount at a local gym.
3. Look at the funny side of things. Search for the humor in any situation. Look forward to the customers who bring in pictures of their cats.
Prepare to Move On:
1. Network extensively. If you believe it’s time to look for a different position, you can still use your time constructively. Try to make more contacts with those who can help you advance your career. Attend meetings and volunteer at the nearest chapter of your professional association. Invite people out to lunch and send them articles they might be interested in.
2. Document your accomplishments. Record achievements that will sound impressive on your resume. Adding value during your last days on the job will keep you motivated and energized.
3. Facilitate the transition. Remind yourself of what you like about your job and why you’re grateful to your current employer. Think of how you can create a smooth transition for your successor while you go off to find a new job, return to school, or start your own business.
Even trivial tasks feel significant when you understand why you’re doing them. Feeling more content at work will reduce stress and add more meaning to your life.
