Are you working to live, or living to work? Whether it’s full-time, part-time or freelance hours, many of us spend most of our daytime hours thinking about work. And even if you love your job, everyone has off days when frustrations, problems or other issues creep up on us.
No matter how you spend your workweek, you’ll want to add a few essential practices to your skill set to help increase your overall happiness while on the clock. The following tips can also help you put things into perspective if you’re having a bad day.
Start by getting clear what your priorities are and what matters most to you. For example, maybe you’re willing to work a job that is intellectually stimulating or allows you to solve problems creatively in exchange for a lower starting salary. Find what you most value – whether it’s a shorter commute, flexible hours, more paid time off, or a good working relationship with your coworkers – and remember those benefits whenever you feel frustrated about a demanding boss, a boring project or unexpected overtime hours.
When working in an office, your people skills will contribute a lot to your overall sense of wellbeing in that setting. Try not to get involved in petty workplace squabbles. Don’t ever assume that your coworkers are being disrespectful or making things difficult on purpose – always give people the benefit of the doubt.
If you treat your coworkers (including your boss) as if they have the best of intentions, you will immediately diffuse difficult situations. You’ll get better results, and even if you do have to deal with a difficult person or task it will be easier to handle if you realize that it’s not personal.
Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself in a polite, nonaggressive way. Misunderstandings can lead to simmering resentment and stress that could be avoided if you’d ask for clarification. Rather than accusing, always try to ask what was meant and then follow up by asking what you can do.
For example, if your boss sends you emails late in the evening, you may feel stressed thinking you have to be available all day long. But she might not expect you to answer right away; maybe she’s just sending the emails later because a quiet, after hours office is her preferred time to send the information she feels you need for the next morning.
Finally, sometimes the best way to really appreciate your job is to take some time off. We live in a culture that often sends a message that putting in long hours is the only way to get ahead, but don’t be fooled. Using your vacation time is an essential way to recharge and be more effective at work. We all want to be irreplaceable, but if you’re pleasant, positive and effective at your job, you won’t be easily replaced.
And for more ideas for managing a stressful workplace, read this great article here!