How to Fall Back in Love with Your Job

You used to adore your job -- but maybe not so much anymore? Face it, our enthusiasm for work has its highs and lows. But just because the romance has dimmed doesn’t always mean you need to abandon the relationship. From great opportunities to convenient work arrangements, there are many reasons you might want to stay put.

If you’re looking for ways to fall back in love with your job, consider these strategies.

Change Things Up

Maybe all you need is a different perspective – literally.

• Clean up your office or rearrange your desk space. Add a plant, new photos or a fun fidget toy for a little pick-me-up.
• Feeling unmotivated or frustrated? Take a walk or climb the stairs. Physical exercise helps you clear your head, shake off that mid-day slump and relieve stress from an intense project.
• Begin a conversation with a co-worker you don’t know well. It could be the beginning of a great new friendship.

Look for New Challenges

“If you have been doing the same tasks for the past five years, it is very possible you are simply bored and uninspired. Challenge yourself by learning something new and exciting,” says Energy Resourcing.

• Offer to help in a different department.
• Volunteer to take on new responsibilities.
• Sign up for a course to advance your skills. Coursera, HubSpot, LinkedIn and other websites offer a variety of free career-boosting online classes.
• Attend professional development seminars.
• Read a book about your industry.
• Set new career goals.

Make Connections

If you surround yourself with people who are excited and engaged, their enthusiasm will be contagious.

“Try making friends with interns and new staff — their bright-eyed excitement can offer a great boost to your day,” says Top Resume.

Other ways to connect:

• Talk to people outside your immediate department.
• Compliment a colleague for their good work.
• Hold a contest. Even those in remote work situations can caption a funny photo or answer trivia questions about the company. Make sure there’s a fun prize!

Lighten Things Up

Even something as simple as “casual day” at the office has been known to boost spirits. If your company has a “fun committee,” join it – or start one. Great office morale-boosting activities include:

• Co-workers will come out of the woodwork for free bagels, donuts, cookies, brownies, etc.
• Host a potluck lunch or see if the company will spring for pizza or takeout.
• Start a coloring station where staff can casually stop and de-stress for a few minutes.
• Organize a community effort, like a holiday gift or food drive.

Falling back in love with your job is part positive attitude and part constructive action. Hopefully, with just a little effort, you’ll rediscover all the things you love about your work.

If you think it's time to break up with your job, contact TPD to start searching for something new. TPD is committed to helping people succeed. Join the TPD Talent Community, find jobs and check out our free job seeker resources.