If you don't love your job, you're not alone. Only 30% of Americans are engaged in their jobs, according to a survey from Gallup.
However, there are some strategies you can use to try to help change your perspective. At best, your job may turn into what you expected it to be. At the least, you can start conducting a job search knowing you tried.
Here are simple ways to learn to love your job, even if you don't like it very much at the moment.
Make a List of Things You Want to Improve
Make a list of what aspects of your current job you’d like to improve because you can’t begin to solve a problem until you’ve defined it.
Take some time to clear your head and step away from any biases or negativity. Then, set a timer for ten minutes, and jot down everything you don’t love about your job. Be as specific as possible.
Figure out What You Really Love to Do
First, think hard about your job and what parts of it you love. Nothing is too big or small for this list. Then, brainstorm a dream job description. If you could wave a magic wand and have any job, what would it be? Finally, look for the overlaps.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Support
If you feel overwhelmed, swamped with work, or are struggling with a particular aspect of your job, don’t be afraid to consult a trusted co-worker or manager about ways you might be able to find support. See if they can help you figure out ways to delegate work, schedule tasks so your workload is more balanced, or even point you to resources (like training or education) that will make those nightmarish tasks more manageable.
Stay Present
It’s impossible to love your job if you’re mindlessly browsing Facebook, CNN, or Amazon all day. Try to stay present and concentrate on the task at hand. If you simply don’t have a lot to do, consider finding a side project to work on. Completing extra projects shows initiative, and will make a positive impression on your supervisor. If you do have a lot to do but just can’t concentrate, set increments of focused time and then reward yourself with mini-breaks as you get stuff done.
Make a ‘Gratitude List’ for Your Job
Write down all the little and big things you’re grateful for, from the coffee shop you stop at on your way into the office to the fact that your job helps you support your family. Studies have shown that listing everything you’re grateful for can help you feel more optimistic about your current circumstances.