Summary:
1. Enjoying your job leads to perfection in your work
2. How can you find fulfillment at work?
1. Enjoying your work leads to perfection in your work
No one can be truly happy at home if they feel miserable at work.
As the philosopher Aristotle so aptly put it: "Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work. " But what if you don't feel happy in your job? What if the sound of that morning alarm fills you with dread? Does your day drag on so much that you keep looking at the clock, counting down the hours until it's time to go home?
Unfortunately, a recent study by Ignition revealed that only 25% of people in France feel fulfilled at work. This means that nearly three-quarters of the working population is not getting the professional satisfaction they need. Being unhappy at work not only affects the quality of your work; it also has a negative impact on your quality of life. After a hard week of laboring at a job that causes you anxiety, you will likely start your weekend feeling tired and resentful, which will put a strain on your family life.
2. How can you be ‘happy’ at work?
2.1. Getting to know yourself: find your Ikigai
Simply put, ikigai is the Japanese word for a person's purpose in life. A Venn diagram showing the four elements of Ikigai can be used as a tool to identify your dream job. The belief is that if you devote your life and work to something you are passionate about, you will find true fulfillment. These four questions can help you find your Ikigai:
• What do I like?
• What am I good at?
• What does the world need?
• What can I get paid for?
Are you a creative and imaginative person, or do you have an analytical and logical mind? Do you enjoy working in a team, exchanging ideas with others, or do you work better alone?
It is important to find a role that matches your interests and allows you to play to your strengths. Perhaps you will come to the conclusion that you are simply in the wrong job. On the other hand, you may be in the right field, but need to make some changes in order to thrive.
2.2 Setting goals
If we don't evolve, we stagnate. If you've been in the same position for a while, you may be bored. Now is the time to think about where you want to go. Set goals and objectives with your manager so that you have something to strive for. Your manager should conduct regular performance reviews to discuss your progress.
2.3 Learning new skills
When we step outside our comfort zone and learn something new, it can be extremely satisfying. Your employer should offer you opportunities to grow and develop new skills. Find out if there are any training courses available at your workplace to help you progress.
2.4 Fostering a sense of self-confidence
When a new challenge arises, it's all too easy to fall prey to the dreaded imposter syndrome. You may think you're not up to the task, but you need to silence that inner critic! Your manager or client trusts you for a reason. Think back to your previous achievements and allow yourself to feel proud—this will give you the confidence you need to succeed.
2.5 Be methodical
If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of work you have, take a deep breath. Make a list of tasks in order of importance and check them off as you complete them. This will give you a sense of satisfaction. And if the workload is really too heavy, ask for help; talk about it and inform your manager.
2.6 Declutter your desk
If your desk is a chaotic pile of papers and sticky notes, you will feel just as disorganized. Take the time to declutter—it will help you feel much more focused on your tasks and you will complete them much more efficiently.
2.7 Take regular breaks
Don't sit staring at the screen all day, as this will drain your energy and make you less productive. Give your eyes a rest and take the breaks you are entitled to. The day will go by faster and you will get more done, which will lead to greater job satisfaction.
2.8 Maintain a work-life balance
Work to live, not the other way around! Your job doesn't have to define you as a person. Don't get into the habit of working overtime and neglecting your family life. Make sure you use your free time to do things you enjoy. Watch out for signs of burnout at work and learn to disconnect after hours. If your job makes you truly unhappy and you can't see a way to fix it, it may be time to look for something new.
2.9 Maintain positive relationships with colleagues
Take the time to be friendly and helpful to your coworkers. Talk to them, get to know them, and if they need help, be ready to lend a hand. Helping others and building relationships is a great way to feel fulfilled.
A sense of camaraderie and collaboration with colleagues can make a big difference. In fact, according to a survey by Officevibe, 70% of people say that friendships at work are the most crucial element for a happy professional life.
2.10 Take care of your health
If your physical or mental well-being is below average, your work may suffer. Make sure you eat well and get plenty of exercise to help you relax and burn calories. Get those feel-good endorphins flowing and you'll feel like you can accomplish anything!
2.11 Don't compare yourself to others
A company is made up of many different personalities with a variety of skills, but they all have one thing in common: everyone has a positive contribution to make. The skills you bring to the table are uniquely yours, so learn to value your contributions.
