Studies have shown that people who find purpose and are committed in their profession are much more resilient and satisfied in their economic environment. The average career professionals work approximately 90,000 hours in their lifetime, so finding happiness and satisfaction is critical. The good news is that life doesn’t have to be perfect for you to find happiness in what you do. Here are ways to find happiness in ones’ work:
1. Employ the 5Cs
You must maintain high levels of confidence, commitment, conviction, contribution, and choose a cultural fit. With these five Cs, you will have a feeling of recognition, pride, and trust in your company.
2. Find purpose in your work
We shouldn’t get caught up in the day-to-day job and forget to look at the big picture. Answer the “why” or the reason that motivates you to work. Tap into the true purpose of your job to make your daily tasks and accomplishments more meaningful.
3. Challenge yourself
Challenging yourself is one way to increase your “joy” factor. You will score points for being a proactive employee who’s ready to take on new challenges. It might even land you a promotion and/or raise.
4. Look above the corporate ladder
Studies indicate that 8 out of the 10 jobs that make people happiest in America are not on the corporate ladder. Instead, they were positions with perks like flexible hours or positions that offered high levels of independence. Choose work that aligns with your value. This is the basis for career satisfaction.
5. Learn new skills
If tasks aren’t enjoyable in the moment, the sense of accomplishment when the task is over changes that perspective. Learning new skills may make you happier, but it also makes you more valuable to your current and future employers.
6. Develop social circle
Having a strong social (professional) network is key. It’s easy to hate your job when you don’t know your co-workers and it is even easier if you continue to avoid them. If you hate your co-workers, the situation isn’t going to change.
7. Seek growth opportunities
Be enthusiastic when there is always a new project to start in the workplace. It doesn’t matter what you do or where you work, there is always something new that could be done. Take some time to search for new opportunities. When you do good things for other people, you create happiness for them and set the stage to receive it in return.