How to Fall Back in Love with Your Job


I've been thinking recently about how my job feels like a chore now. It didn't use to be that way. I remember not so long ago, that I'd actually look forward to the weekend so I could play on work related labs, learning/experimenting with stuff I didn't get time to look at in the week (I work in Information Technology if you're wondering what labs.)

When you've got something on your mind, the worst thing you can do is stew in negative thoughts. The best thing you can do is go and seek advice. And in this world where everything is at your finger tips courtesy of the internet, all you need to do is google for advice (if you don't like talking to people, you don't have to talk to anyone in this world.)

Rule: Don't stew in your own thoughts, reach out for help (google if you don't like talking.)

I came across 3 quite good articles which are well worth a read. If you're only going to read one of those articles, I'd definitely go with article (1).

(1) How to fall in love with your job (again)

(2) How to Fall Back in Love with Your Job

(3) How to Rekindle Your Relationship With Work

Headings & Highlights from:
(1) How to fall in love with your job (again)

Learn something new
"Whenever you start a new job, your mind is exploratory and receptive ... you exist in a state known as Beginner’s Mind. And in this state, you are more willing and able to abandon your preconceptions, consider processes more carefully, and think more creatively."
"Tap into this mindset once more. ... And spend time in the moment. Being situationally aware and present can make you happier doing what you do."

Share your wisdom
"Your brain will thank you too. Giver’s glow is your body’s neurological response to altruistic acts, like helping..."

Reach for your strengths
"... the more we employ our natural talents, the more likely we are to be happier at work and more engaged."
"If you are an introverted type that prefers detail-oriented, self-directed projects, ask to see if that kind of work is available to take on (or provide assistance on)."

Enlist your manager’s help
As the adage goes, “you don’t quit your job, you quit your manager,”

Summing it Up
"Falling in love with your job is as emotional as it is introspective; knowing yourself is truly the first step to being happy. And staying happy is an ongoing process of regrounding your long-term goals ..."

Key Things from the Above

i) Beginner's Mind.

Remember how you felt when you were awarded your current job. Likely you went through an interview process, you weren't sure if you'd get the job or not, but you were very excited about the opportunity. Then you got the job and you were elated. And the first so many years were brilliant.

Q: So what's happened now that's made you fall out of love with your job?
A: Likely possibilities: Complacency. Lack of gratitude. Taking things for granted. A sense of entitlement. Your own laziness.

Get that Beginner's Mind back like you've just started a new job (really, any new project is like a new job). You're elated to get the job. Super grateful. Super excited. And can't wait to get started!

ii) Giver's Glow.

It is good to give! And good to share!

Reinforcing  the Above

(Get Back/Keep) The Beginner’s Mind
Q: How did you feel when you got your job?
Feel elated to be given the opportunity.
Excited at the prospects of new learning/experiences/and development. And keen to learn.
Super grateful that your boss has put his belief in you. And keen to prove yourself as an exceptional new employee.

The Giver’s Glow
It is good to give/share!
Give of your knowledge/wisdom/experience.
Share of your opportunities.