By Roberta Chinsky Matuson
Before we entered into this historic recession, it was easy to leave a job you didn't love. All you had to do was knock on the door of another employer and you could begin work the next week. Those days are gone and most likely will not return anytime soon. But that doesn't mean you have to be miserable in the job you have.
Here are some tips on how to love the job you have.
Be Realistic
No one's life is perfect. Not even the lives of people who star on those sitcoms you watch. It is OK to have a bad day, week or even month at work. Just be sure the good days outweigh the bad.
Be Positive
Focus on what is going well at the office. Is your work still challenging? Could a promotion be in your future? Do you enjoy the people you work with? A "yes" to any of these questions means you have positive energy you can build upon.
Clear the Air
Sometimes it is one issue or person that makes a great job a not-so-great one. If this is the case, then it's time to clear the air. Write down some examples of how this situation is impacting your ability to perform at an optimal level. Then share your findings with the person or people involved.
Don't Believe Everything People Say
It is human nature to boast or exaggerate a bit. People around you may be saying they love their jobs, but in reality they may be in the same position as you -- waiting for the next thing to come along. Take what people are saying about their jobs with a grain of salt and focus on your own happiness.
This Doesn't Have to Be Forever
Right now it may feel like you have no choice but to keep this job forever. However, this won't be the case if you play your cards right. Use this recession as an opportunity to increase your options. Enroll in evening or online classes, volunteer to work on projects with high visibility and gain the experience you will need to move to a new place in your career. Who knows? This may just be the spark you need to reignite the flames of love again in the job you have.
Get a Life
Enjoying your work should only be one part of having a life that you love. If your job is the only thing that brings joy to your life, then perhaps it's time to focus on having a life outside of work. Look for opportunities to participate in activities that are of interest to you. Volunteer, take up a new sport or get a hobby. These are all great ways to build a life that you can love.
Copyright 2009 Human Resource Solutions. All rights reserved.
[Roberta Chinsky Matuson is the president of Human Resource Solutions and has been helping companies align their people assets with their business goals. Read her blog Generation Integration. She can be reached at Roberta@yourhrexperts.com.]