How to stay motivated at work
Even your dream job can have bad days. No matter how much you love (or hate) your current role, there will be periods of time when you’re feeling bored, stagnant, or simply unmotivated. Moving from task to task can feel mundane or maybe even impossible. It’s first important to know you are not alone in that feeling.
According to Gallup, 60% of employees are disengaged at work, being physically present, but not knowing why their work matters. Additionally, employees are feeling stress at an all-time high, currently sitting at 44%.
If you’re resonating with any of the information above, quitting your job may seem like the most obvious answer to solving your problems, however, that might not be the best option. Working to alleviate your stress and burnout may be a better option to start with.
Take the time to look through some of our suggestions for strategies to increase your motivation.
Understand Your Impact
Sometimes feeling unmotivated lies in a lack of understanding of why your work matters. If you’re not sure how a task adds value, ask your manager how what you’re doing is helping contribute to the success of your company. If you already know your value add, remind yourself you are positively impacting someone else’s day by getting that task done.
Start With What You Enjoy
While every job will come with tasks you don’t enjoy, try focusing on what you do like. When you’re feeling stuck, rearrange your day to accommodate how you’re feeling. Start your day by doing work you enjoy and that feels productive. This will build up your motivation and carry you throughout the rest of your day.
Go Outside Your Comfort Zone
A lack of motivation can stem from the monotony of day-to-day work. Find ways to try new things that push you to think differently. You and your team might appreciate it.
Find Joy Elsewhere
Not everything you do revolves around work, and it is only a small part of your personality. Finding meaning and thriving in other interests can be just as meaningful as thriving in your job. Allowing yourself to recognize all of your values and articulating them will help you recognize the bigger picture. Work is not all that life has to offer, it’s just a small part of who you are.