Work doesn’t have to be a drag!

Unless you’re independently wealthy or you have the luxury of being an heiress or heir, you probably need to have a job. Finding work that you like and that you can live with can be tough! But regardless of what job you have, you can get more from your work.

And you don’t always have to change jobs to be happy. Some people do find they have to switch jobs to find something more rewarding, but what if you aren’t in a position to change your job right now? There’s a way to be happy and more fulfilled from where you are right now.

It’s all about perspective…

It’s not hard to come up with a list of what you don’t like about your job. It can be a little harder, though much more rewarding, to build a case for loving your job. It comes down to what you focus on. Here are some ways to emphasize the positive:

1. Count the benefits and blessings that your job gives you, like money for food, bills, entertainment…

2. How up and give your best effort, so you (and others) feel positive about your approach to work.

3. Be honest about your goals, so your boss knows that you want to move up.

4. Leave work at work – avoid bringing home anything negative or problematic. Let it go.

5. Refrain from taking personal problems or agendas to work. Leave them at home for later.

Remember your coworkers have their own opinions, goals, and agendas. What they do only really matters if it has a direct impact on what you are trying to accomplish. For example, someone who tries to intentionally make you look bad is an issue, but beyond that kind of an issue, though, just let others do what they will. You will find work much more enjoyable if you focus on the only performance you have control of – yours.

Another touchy subject – it can be difficult to keep quiet when you aren’t getting the promotion or recognition you feel you deserve. However, responding with anger or lackluster performance only makes it harder to get what you want. With that in mind, focus on what you want in your job and work toward it.

Get Help From Your Support System

Avoid playing the role of the martyr. Carrying the burden all alone will make your time at work depressingly long. There’s nothing wrong with being honest about your job challenges with friends and families. While whining doesn’t help, communicating as honestly and as positively as you can helps you get things off your chest. You can also talk about your issues at work as long as it’s clear you’re searching for a positive solution. When you need help, ask for it.

If work seem really overwhelming and it’s not just because you feel overworked or underappreciated, be determined to take action instead of sulking. Harassment and other legal issues should be reported. You aren’t required to work under those kinds of conditions.

So even if you feel “trapped” in a job that you don’t really care for, determine to make the best of it with a positive attitude. Remember a bad job doesn’t have to be your life’s career, there are viable options and opportunities for creating a career you can love and live with. At the moment, however, your job provides you with the ability to pay your bills and feed your family – that’s a lot to be thankful for, and makes your job an asset keeping you from becoming a liability.