Whether you’re working in your dream career, a side job for a few extra bucks, putting yourself through school, or whatever your case may be, you deserve to love what you’re doing. Working should give you a sense of purpose, a sense of accomplishment. Even if you’re working in what feels like a dead end job, there are ways to make it more enjoyable and more rewarding until you figure out your next move.
So you hate your job. Or maybe you like your job, but it isn’t what you really want to do for the rest of your life. Or are you just working for the money? There are ways to add purpose to any job, here are some that have helped me or my friends in the past:
Make friends with your coworkers. There is nothing that can make work better than working with friends. You’ll have someone to go on break with, to chat with, and who understands the pressures of the job like you do. Even if you hate the actual work, you’ll feel better about getting up in the morning if you know you are going to see your friends.
Get to know your customers or clients. If it’s appropriate, that is. If you’re working in retail or food service, make it a goal to ask each customer something about themselves; “where did you get that shirt?” “who does your hair?” “I see you in here a lot, do you work nearby?” You never know what cool or crazy stories you will hear! Plus, if you’re kind to them off the bat, there is less of a chance that they will be super annoying or rude.
Picture how skills you use in your current job apply to your dream career. Folding clothes in a stock room all day but really want to work in fashion? Take note of the styles of the clothes and learn how to fold each piece the best. If you find a way to relate your current job to the career you’re aspiring for, you will be more eager to come to work. I currently work for an NGO, and I think every day about how I will use the skills from this job when I am a social worker.
Right now you might be thinking “well duh,” but I truly use these methods with any job I do. It helps me to love even the dullest days or most monotonous tasks. What makes you love your job? How do you motivate yourself in the mornings? We would love to hear from you! Leave us a comment or reach out to us on social media, @twowildtides
xoxo,
char
Let us know what you think!