3 keys to being happier at work

April 12, 2018

By Brian Maynor

 

Everyone wants to be happy at work, but what does that actually mean?

Is happiness just being satisfied with our job?  Having fun at work?  Or when we work in a nice environment with enjoyable days and stress-free evenings?

While all of those are important, there is more to it than that.  In fact, there are three key factors we all need to be happier at work.   Here they are along with some ways we can improve each one:

1.   Finding our purpose.  The first key to being happier at work is when our work aligns with our values.  When this happens, we gain a sense of fulfillment from seeing the positive impact our work has on others, which in turn boosts our satisfaction and happiness with what we do.

Some of the best ways to increase our sense of purpose at work are to:  stand up for what we believe in and seek out opportunities that are exciting, inspiring and educational.

2.    Having hope.  It may seem odd to think about the connection between our job and our hope for the future, but it is in fact the second key to being happier at work.  When our job aligns with our goals and aspirations we are more engaged and inspired by our work, and thus happier.

If we want to stay hopeful, empowered and committed to our path we can:  self-audit our strengths; request a meeting with our manager to discuss our plans for the future and avoid toxic or negative people.

3.    Making friendships.  Contrary to the myth that we shouldn’t be friends with people we work with, the fact is we need warm, positive and supportive relationships especially at work.  When we like our coworkers we give more generously of our time, talents and have more fun.

A few tips for cultivating friendships that work as well in life as they do around the office include:  be the first to share our time, resources and trust; be authentic and encourage others to do the same, and be open to potential friendships.

It’s great to be happy at work and empowering to know there are steps we can take to make it happen, but it should also be pointed out that happiness is a precursor to success since our emotions are directly related to our ability to think and focus.   So it pays to work on being happier at work in more ways than one.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.