Work

How to be Happy: Put into work what you want to get out of it
by Dr Cecilia D'Felice
from the Independent UK

'I am feeling despondent about my career and I keep thinking that if I change my job, I will be much happier. But, to be honest, I always feel this way whatever job I have, so should I just give up working?'

Step 1: It is a common misconception that giving up work will make us feel better if we are feeling stressed or low. Those without work or meaningful endeavours are usually far more unhappy and unhealthy than those with. If there is nothing intrinsically wrong with the work you are doing, then it is your relationship to work that requires reflection.

Step 2: One of Freud's least controversial attributed claims was that love and work are all that matter. Being passionate about what we do makes work a pleasure, becoming an expression of the way we want to live our lives. Think about what it is you bring to work – not your lunch, but your attitude. Ask yourself what your expectations are: of yourself, your work and your future. Do you experience work as a place where you learn, develop skills and complete tasks with satisfaction? If not, find yourself a mentor, someone who you trust and admire, someone who demonstrably loves what they do, and ask them to teach you how to love what you do, too.

Step 3: It is all too easy to erode the important meaning that work gives us by endlessly complaining that we have to do it. For most of us, we do have to do it, so we might as well bring a little grace, dignity and good humour to it. Commit yourself to bringing to work all the qualities that you want to receive from it, such as creativity, goal achievement or caring for others. The more you embody these qualities, the more they will be reflected back on you. If you want trust, be trusting. If you want promotion, promote yourself and back it up with industry. If you long for innovation, be the first to be innovative; don't be afraid to take some risks. Be curious and spontaneous, and connect with your colleagues; witness how this can totally transform your day. As with all areas of life, the more we invest into the situation, the more we receive; it is a simple but true equation.