Seven ways to keep things fresh at work

Whether we admit it or not, we all fall in and out of love with our jobs all the time. And that’s okay. It’s part and parcel of working life.

Going through a bad patch? Here are seven things you can do to rekindle the love.

1. Consider the root cause

If you’re feeling dissatisfied but can’t quite put your finger on why, it’s time to take stock.

Consider the following: How long have you felt like this? Is there a single cause or are several factors at play? Is it really work, or is an issue at home at the heart of it?

2. Learn something new

Been doing the same role day in, day out for the last five years? The likelihood is you’re bored. So why not challenge yourself to learn something new?

You could offer to help out in another department, ask to take on more responsibilities, or take a course to advance your skills.

But whatever you do, make sure it interests you. It’ll help you look at your role in a new light.

3. Look at the bigger picture

It’s easy to get stuck ‘in your head’ at work. When this happens, try to take a step back and focus on the bigger picture. Remember, every penny you raise makes a difference, whether it’s to sick children, homeless adults, animals in need, or the environment.

If you broaden your perspective and appreciate the contribution you’re making, it might just rekindle your passion.

4. Make the effort to foster strong relationships at work

A 2018 Gallup poll found that 'when employees possess a deep sense of affiliation with their team members, they are driven to take positive actions that benefit the business'.

So make the effort to get to know your colleagues. Invite them for lunch, grab a drink after work, or stop by their desk for a quick chat.

You’ll feel better for it. And it might make you feel happier in your role.

5. Speak up

If the job you once loved dearly has lost its spark, don’t suffer in silence. Schedule an informal meeting with your manager to discuss how you’re feeling. After all, it’s their job to make sure you’re happy and engaged.

However, the conversation won’t go your way if you spend an hour moaning.

Outline the issues with a positive mindset, and bring solutions to the table. And ask them how they think things are going. It will remind you what your work (however brain-numbing it may be) contributes to the bigger picture and the charity’s goals.

6. Take some time off

Burnout is a real thing, and it’ll infiltrate every aspect of your life unless you take a break.

If you don’t have enough holiday left, take a day at the weekend to do something you love. Completely disconnect and give yourself time to think about something other than work.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder after all.

Still not happy?

If you’ve tried all the above and you’re still unhappy, it might be time to move on.

This is where we come in.

Our site is packed with exciting opportunities. If you spot one that gets your heart racing, give us a call to discuss it on 0203 750 3111.