Change How You Feel About Work

By Meredith Jannsen, Director, ASHP’s CareerPharm

While many employees are happy with the profession they’ve chosen they are sometimes unhappy with the path their career has taken. Evaluating the reasons you may be unhappy is one step towards changing the way you feel at work and determining what will help you become motivated and satisfied with your profession and your career.

Trust Yourself
One of the biggest pitfalls of staying motivated at work is a lack of confidence or trust. Doubt is a normal reaction especially when tasked with something new or unfamiliar. But don’t’ let it get in the way of progress. Remember, you are a trained, skilled professional and have the tools to succeed. If you’re really unsure of yourself ask a colleague or supervisor for their opinion but never let doubt stifle your growth.

Let Go of Blame
Getting caught up in the blame game is counterproductive. When things go wrong it’s most important to correct the situation first and determine a better process – to avoid a repeat situation- later. Even though blame can make you feel better temporarily, because you don’t have to admit a wrong doing, it’s a drain on your energy and prevents you from being accountable. If something goes wrong, or not exactly as planned, accept it and try to learn from it. Only then will you be able to move on.

Change Your Attitude
A simple attitude change can make all the difference in having a career that’s an exciting journey as opposed to one you dread. If you come to grips with your career having high points and low points and enter each situation with a positive, can-do attitude good things will come your way. Negativity is also contagious and spreads like wildfire at work. Keep yourself and your colleagues up, not down.

Make Better Choices
Of course, no one intentionally makes bad choices but you have the opportunity to change how you feel and how you work all day. Take the simple step of turning off the alarm for example. In a split second you could ruin your entire day b/c you wanted to get two more minutes of shut eye. Instead, you not only missed your morning workout but you overslept, skipped breakfast, and were late for work. Every second and every decision counts so make them good ones.

Change Your Job
Many people stay in their jobs longer than they should for all sorts of reasons. But if you’re putting all of these things in place and you’re still not happy, maybe it’s time for a job change. Job searches are tough, but deciding to change your job can actually change your life and that’s an investment worth looking into.