Job Search & Career Advice

How to Be Happy at Work – 10 Tips

Are you happy at your job? Some love the perks of free food or gym memberships, while others cherish their health care benefits and volunteer opportunities. There are different aspects of a job that make an employee happy.

However, being happy with your job goes beyond the perks and benefits offered, it also stems from growth opportunities and motivation. As you focus on your career path, we know that ultimately, it’s your happiness that matters above all.

It’s normal to ponder your job every now and then. After all, you are spending most of your week interacting with coworkers and working on projects in your field. Being content with your job is crucial for your mental health as well as your performance at work. When you are happy and excited about your job, you are more engaged, more productive, and are more likely to succeed.

10 Tips on How to Be Happy at Work 

If you need a little boost to focus on how you can be happier at your job, here are 10 helpful tips to steer you in the right direction.

Tip #1: Take breaks during the day

You don’t have to be glued to your desk all day. Take some time to pause and use this time to take walks, exercise, meditate and do anything else that will give your body and mind a little break from work. It’s important to bring movement into your body every couple of hours and if you can step outside, a breath of fresh air will definitely give you some positive perspective. 

Tip #2: Help your colleagues

Kindness goes a long way, especially when it comes to feeling good. If you have some extra time, ask your coworkers if they need any help with their projects. You might be surprised by how appreciative they will be of this simple ask. 

Tip #3: Build a support system

Find a group of people at work that you trust and that whom you feel comfortable building a deeper connection. Not only will making friends at work make the environment more fun, but you will also have a support system to lean on when things get tough.

Tip #4: Follow a healthy diet

Eating healthy meals and drinking a good amount of water keeps your mood happy and you feeling energized. Avoid eating junk, especially for lunch as this can make you feel sluggish during the day.

Tip #5: Switch up your surroundings

Practice this even if you work from home! Whether it’s decluttering your desk, adding some personalization, or just getting organized, play around with your surroundings so you can feel more at home and comfortable where you work. A favorite photo or piece of art can go a long way in brightening up your day first thing in the morning. 

Tip #6: Start your day with an intention

Try starting your workday or workweek by defining an intention. Your intentions can include completing your priority to-do list, channeling your inner creativity, or anything else that will help start your day strong and with a positive mindset. Intentions are meant to help you stay focused and determined to get you closer to your goals.

Tip #7: Smile more!

The simple act of smiling can go a long way in cheering yourself up! Smiling is an instant mood booster and will make you feel better, especially if you think about things that make you happy. Scientists have found that smiling lowers stress levels and boosts your immune system! (NBC News).

Tip #8: Know your worth

Always remind yourself that you are worthy, and you are doing the best you can. Take some time to reflect on yourself and appreciate all the hard work you do! You can start journaling about your goals, your achievements, what you were proud of during the workweek, and maybe even make notes about the things you know you need to improve on to do better for the next time.

Tip #9: Reward yourself

When you know you have worked hard and completed a challenging project, give yourself a reward! Whether it’s treating yourself to the spa or your favorite meal, you deserve all the work you have put into your task. Giving yourself little rewards will also improve your mood and keep you engaged as you look forward to completing your next challenge at work.

Tip #10: Create a mood-boosting playlist

Dance party of one, anyone? Create a playlist of all your favorite songs that make you happy. When you’re having a bad day or having trouble staying focused, take a moment to catch your breath and listen to your playlist to change your mood. Your happy songs should instantly bring you joy and get you ready to take on the rest of the day at work.

Roth Staffing Companies has specialized business lines to help find you the right role in the industry you want to be in. From administrative, to finance & accounting, to technology or legal staffing, discover how our recruiters can help you take that next step in your career.