Beat the Back to Work Blues Part 2

What is about work that you either love or hate?  Do you find coming back to work after being away that you feel deflated and that it is all a bit dull?  How about changing how you work and changing your mindset?  Let your work impact on your life in a positive way.

Consider the things you love about your job, then ask your boss if you can do more of them

Take the power. 

Think of yourself as an entrepreneur and run your career like a one-person business. Think about your brand, recognise who your customers and bosses are, and be clear about what they pay you for. Keep up to date with trends in your industry, look for new ways to add value, and keep expanding the range of 'products' you sell by signing up for professional development programmes, or volunteering for projects that will bolster your skill set.

Learn how to play nicely. 

No one wins when there’s friction in the workplace, so make an effort to get along with all your co-workers. This might mean congratulating a colleague on a job well done, or you could find something you can all share outside work – a company sports team, choir or exercise group, perhaps. Finally, laugh more. A recent Gallup poll found that people who smile and laugh at work are more engaged in their jobs.

Focus on what you like and ramp it up. 

Consider the things you love about your job, then ask your boss if you can do more of them. Try not to be nervous about asking; your boss usually wants you to succeed, especially if it will make him or her look good, too. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. Gratitude for the good parts of your job will give you the strength to ride out the difficult parts.

Transform your workspace. 

Decluttering is liberating, empowering and a physical way to make decisions about your life. You’re saying, “This is valuable, this is not.” Next, find a positive image to inspire you and help you cope. Close your eyes and visualise it, or tape a version of it to your office wall. Directing your attention away from your work opens up a door in your day for respite, a restart, and a new view.

Mentor someone. 

As well as infusing your job with a sense of purpose, mentoring can help you get excited again about what you do and boost flagging confidence. Keep in mind that mentoring is a two-way street - a younger person has plenty to teach you, too. Some businesses have formal mentoring programmes, so check with your HR department. If they don’t, keep your ear to the ground about new starters who might need help, or see if you can make connections elsewhere in your industry.

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