by Bob Schmidt

Created on: March 16, 2007   Last Updated: November 09, 2009

Happiness in the workplace can be elusive, but changing your own attitude can help those who wish that they liked their jobs better. Unfortunately, most unhappy workers reinforce their unhappiness by starting every day with negative thoughts about the workday before it even begins. Anyone can brighten their outlook for the oncoming day that is unfolding.

Most jobs have aspects that are not necessarily fun, that is a given. As a matter of fact, that is probably why you are being paid to do the job. There is a way to improve on your attitude as you approach each workday. If possible, arrange your workday to begin with the least enjoyable things that are part of your job.

As unpleasant tasks are performed, let your mind think of the plans for a fun evening after work is over. Always try to focus your mind on things that are fun, not the drudgery of work. By focusing on the rewards for having done a good job, it will seem less unpleasant and possibly go faster.

After having completed the least fun things at work, delve into the better part of your workday with enthusiasm. Making yourself do your least liked job first will usually make the rest of the day seem like a piece of cake. Your boss or supervisor will probably notice your good attitude, and reward it sooner or later. Remember, each workday in the office has an ending which is the light at the end of the tunnel. Having that sure knowledge that the workday will end and represent the beginning of your fun-time should help you arrive at that point.

Some jobs are so boring, or unpleasant that it might be a good idea to put out feelers for different employment. If you do this, be very discreet about it. A boss who is aware of discontent can make things even more miserable. Sometimes, the workplace is destined to be disliked because we don't want to work there. In that case, a change of scenery is in order.

Most people will tell you that happiness can grow anywhere that one permits it to grow. Even those who think that they would be happy doing nothing usually discover that boredom can exist at home as easily as at work. When we realize that our jobs are the key to the income that we enjoy with our families, it is easier to accept the less pleasant parts of our jobs.

Do a reality check on your attitude, and if you cannot find a way to be happy, take appropriate action by doing something different. Life is too short to let it slip by without trying to improve it.

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