We are experiencing a revolution in today’s workplace. Many employees are expecting and anticipating that their jobs and their employers should be arbiters of “fun.” But what does that mean exactly? The truth is, no job is going to be fun all day every day, no matter what you do for a living. So maybe we need to take a closer look at our workday expectations rather than giving up on jobs that present challenges to us. Here are some things to keep in mind to improve your expectations and have fun at work – while still working!
Fulfillment
Maybe it isn’t fun at work that you’re looking for, but a sense of fulfillment. You want to know that the work you do is making a difference not just for yourself but also your employer and the community in general. To determine this, take a step back.
Do you feel appreciated? Do you feel like your contributing to a greater good? Make the connections. It might not be obvious. Accounts payable may not seem fulfilling on its own, for example, but the companies you work with may be in the business of helping others. That makes your job essential.
Energy
Fun is not the opposite of boredom. Energy is. If you find yourself bored in your job, what do you need to do to make yourself more engaged. You may need to find ways to bring more energy to your day-to-day job.
This looks different for everyone. Maybe you start your day with a workout or meditation. That can help put you in a better mindset to face your workday. If you find yourself easily distracted on the job, consider listening to music that makes you dance along.
Reward
Another thing to consider in your day-to-day job is whether or not you feel you’ve been rewarded. This may be one of the only aspects that is directly out of your control. Do you feel appreciated by your employer?
If the answer is no, it may be time to have a conversation with your boss. Talk to them about your need for recognition as a motivator. Chances are if you feel this way, so do many other people in your office. You may be doing your company a service by bringing this to their attention.
Challenge
Another aspect of your job you may want to consider is how challenged you feel. Do you learn in your job or are you doing repetitive tasks that remain the same over and over again? What can you do you improve this situation?
If there is no way to feel more challenged in your particular job, even after speaking with your boss, it may be time to look for a new opportunity that is better suited to your long-term goals and interest levels.
Do you want a drastic change for your expectations? Contact Harvard Resource Solutions, now hiring for jobs in Southeast MI. We can help you have fun at work – in a job you love.
