MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

On the job and in love: How to keep the spark alive at work

You know the feeling. You’re sitting in your office, or at your desk, and suddenly you’re hit with a wave of boredom.

The tasks in front of you seem mundane and uninspiring, and you can’t help but wonder how you ever got interested in this line of work in the first place.

It’s normal to feel this way at times, especially if you’ve been at the same job for a while. But it’s important to find ways to keep the spark alive so you don’t get too discouraged. In this post, we will share some tips on how to maintain your passion for your job, whether it’s through new challenges, creativity, or simply remembering why you loved it in the first place.

Define what passion means to you

What does passion mean to you? Is it the excitement you feel when you’re working on a new project? Is it the satisfaction of a job well done? Maybe it’s the sense of satisfaction you get from helping others.

Whatever it is, you need to find ways to connect with that feeling regularly. If you don’t, you will quickly lose interest in your work. And that’s not good for your career—or your work relationships. So how can you keep the spark alive?

First, take some time to define what passion means to you. What are the things that make you feel most alive? Once you know that, start looking for ways to connect with those feelings daily. Find projects that excite you, take pride in your work, and look for ways to help your teammates. When you do, you will find that the spark never really dies.

Find a job that inspires you with excitement

colleagues gathering in front of a laptop

Image Credits: unsplash.com

You know the saying, “Love what you do, and you will never work a day in your life?” Well, it’s true. And it’s possible to find a job that inspires you with excitement.

Think about the things that make you feel fired up and motivated. Is it working with a team of people who share your same values? Is it the challenge of learning new things? Or maybe it’s the feeling of accomplishment you get after completing a tricky task.

Whatever it is, try to find a job that incorporates those things into your workday. You will be much more likely to maintain your passion if you’re doing something you love.

Don’t forget why you accepted the offer in the first place

When you first started your job, you were probably really excited about it. You envisioned yourself crushing it, and you couldn’t wait to get started. But somewhere along the way, the spark died. The passion you once had is gone, and all you’re feeling is dread and exhaustion.

Don’t worry, this happens to a lot of people. It’s normal to lose your motivation sometimes. But the key is to find a way to reignite that spark so you can start enjoying your job again. And how do you do that?

Well, it all starts with remembering why you fell in love with your job in the first place. What was it that made you so excited? Was it the challenge of the work? The people you got to work with? The chance to make a difference?

Think about those things and find ways to incorporate them back into your day-to-day routine. Maybe it means asking for more responsibilities or taking on new projects. Or maybe it means finding new ways to connect with the people you work with. Whatever it is, make sure you’re doing something to keep that fire burning.

No matter how much you may love your job, there will be times when the spark seems to fade. That’s normal, but it’s up to you to find ways to reignite that passion and keep it burning bright. Sometimes all you need is a little breather to clear your head and come back with a fresh perspective. It’s also helpful to get a different perspective on things, and talking to your co-workers can give you some great insights. Keep track of all the progress you’ve made in your job, both big and small. Seeing your accomplishments in black and white can help you stay motivated and inspired.

How to show support for someone with a suspected eating disorder

You’ve just learned that your loved one may be suffering from an eating disorder. What do you do now?

When you’re worried about someone you care for, check in with them, and see how they’re doing. Let them know that you’re there for them, no matter what.

It can be tough to know what to say, but just being there for them is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Read on for more tips on how you can show your support.

Seek professional help

If you think that your loved one might be suffering from an eating disorder, try seeking professional help. Eating disorders are serious and they require treatment.

Professionals who specialize in treating eating disorders can help your loved one get back on track. There are many different types of treatment available, so don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions. You might be surprised at how much progress your loved one can make with the right support.

Avoid making assumptions

Don’t make assumptions about what someone with a suspected eating disorder is going through. Sure, you may think you know what they’re dealing with, but unless you’ve been in that person’s shoes, you don’t know.

And the last thing someone with a suspected eating disorder needs is for you to make assumptions about them and their condition. It’s crucial to be understanding. Let them know that you’re there for them and that they can come to you with any questions or concerns they may have.

Listen to what they have to say

Image Credits: dignitymemorial.com

Chances are your loved one is probably feeling a range of intense emotions. They may be scared, ashamed, or regretful. They may also feel like they’re the only person who’s ever gone through this.

So train yourself to listen to them without critique. Let them know that you’re there for them and that you want to help, in whatever little ways you can. A listening ear can go a long way in helping someone feel supported.

Bring up your concerns in a non-judgmental way

It can be tricky to know what to say to someone who you think might be struggling with an eating disorder. On the one hand, you want to let them know that you’re there for them. But on the other hand, you don’t want to say anything that might make them feel judged or misunderstood.

A wise thing to do is to bring up your concerns in a non-judgmental way. Try something like, “I’ve been noticing that you’ve been going through a tough time with your meals lately. Is there anything I can do to help?” This will let them know that you’re there for them, without making them feel like they’re being accused of anything.

If you’re worried about a loved one, be supportive. Wait patiently until they’re ready to talk about the details and don’t push them if they’re not ready. Never judge. Eating disorders are complex and it’s good to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. However, for severe cases, encourage them to seek therapy and offer to accompany them if they are comfortable with the suggestion.

Tips for surviving a Monday morning when all you want to do is stay in bed

It’s Monday morning, and instead of feeling motivated and excited to start the week, you feel like staying in bed another day. Sounds familiar?

We all have those days when we don’t feel like going to work, but unfortunately, they often fall on the busiest day of the week. Here are a few tips to help you drag yourself out of bed and make it through the day.

Understand your feelings

You’re feeling down and out today, and the last thing you want to do is go to work. You’re tempted to call in sick, but you know that’s not the right thing to do. You force yourself out of bed and into the shower, but you can barely keep your eyes open.

So why are you feeling this way? Well, you may be experiencing Monday blues. This is when people start to feel anxious about the week ahead. They feel like they won’t have enough time to get everything done, and they feel swamped. If that is the case, then it’s good to take some time to relax and recharge on Sunday so you can start the week off fresh.

Get yourself organized on Sunday

With that said, make sure you have everything you need for work—including your outfit, laptop, and any other necessary documents. If you can, try to pack your brekkie and snacks on Sunday evening too, so you don’t have to worry about that in the morning.

Next, set your alarm for earlier than usual. This will give you a little extra time to get ready and hopefully make you feel calmer. Finally, try to take some deep breaths and remind yourself that it’s only the first day. It’s probably going to get more manageable as you ease into the workweek.

Go to bed earlier and wake up earlier

Image Credits: unsplash.com

We know it seems like the complete opposite of what you want to do, but trust us on this one. When you get more sleep, you’re going to feel more rested and energized. And when you’re feeling better, it will be a lot easier to drag yourself out of bed and into the work prep zone.

Another thing to keep in mind is that when you’re well-rested, you’re going to be less likely to get sick. So by going to bed and waking up earlier, you’re not only taking care of yourself mentally and emotionally, but you’re also taking care of yourself physically.

Take short breaks throughout the day

Try to take a few short breaks throughout the day. When you’re feeling overpowered or just struggling to keep your eyes open, step away from your desk for a few minutes. Get some fresh air, drink some water, or just take a quick walk around the office building.

It might help to set a timer so you know when to take a break. And if you can, try to avoid staying up late into the night. It’s not good for your health, and it’s certainly not going to positively contribute to your productivity levels.

We know how it feels to dread going to work on Monday. Well, try to get as much rest as you can on Sunday so you don’t feel as exhausted on Monday morning. Next, drink plenty of fluids and eat healthy foods to give yourself a boost of energy. It also helps to take some deep breaths and relax your mind and body. And finally, slip on something looser if feasible, it will certainly help with comfortability.

Why a four-day workweek may not be the best idea

You may be rejoicing at the thought of a four-day workweek, but there are some reasons why you may want to think twice.

While it may seem like a dream come true, a shorter workweek could have some negative consequences. For instance, a four-day workweek could lead to lesser efficiency. At worst, it could even lead to burnout and an increase in job dissatisfaction.

So before you accept that four-day workweek job offer, be sure to weigh the pros and cons.

You are more likely to get burned out

When you’re stretched thin, it’s hard to maintain your focus and energy level. You may find that you’re less productive overall when you’re working shorter weeks.

Another thing to consider is that you may end up taking on more work in the evenings and on weekends to make up for the hours you’re not spending at work. This can be taxing, both mentally and physically.

Finally, there’s the issue of flexibility. If your company transitions to a four-day workweek, but you still need to come in for occasional meetings or events on the fifth day, are you being penalized? Will you be able to take off-in-lieu during the week if needed?

These are things to think about before cheering too loudly for a shorter workweek.

You may be expected to be available 24/7

Image Credits: screenrant.com

Imagine this: You’re all excited because your company is considering or has already transitioned over to a four-day workweek. You think this is the best thing since sliced bread and can’t wait to tell all your friends.

But then you find out that even though you’re only working four days, you’re expected to be available 24/7 to reply to emails and text messages. What? That’s right, your boss wants you to be available on your days off given the break on Friday.

So much for having time to yourself! Suddenly, the four-day workweek doesn’t seem so extraordinary after all.

You may feel more pressure to work more hours each day

Here’s the thing—even if you get that coveted four-day workweek, you may find that you’re working more hours each day. That’s because you may feel more pressure to get everything done in a shorter period.

Now, we’re not saying that a four-day workweek is a bad idea. We’re just saying that you need to be prepared for the possibility that you may be working just as hard, if not harder. And if that’s the case, then what’s the point?

Although a four-day workweek may seem like a dream come true, it may not be as amazing as it seems. You may feel overwhelmed with all the work you have to do in four days and get burnt out by the end of the fourth day. Thus, instead of rejoicing over a four-day workweek, think about the downsides before you sign that contract.

Why being too friendly with your employees can backfire

You may be thinking about being friends with your employees, but before you make any decisions, it’s good to understand the possible risks.

Friendship is a two-way street, and while being friends with your employees might seem like a good idea, in theory, in practice it can boomerang. Read on for reasons why being too friendly with your employees can backfire.

You may be taken advantage of

Your employees might start to feel like they can take advantage of the relationship, and they may not feel the need to work as hard because they know you’re not going to fire them. They may also start to rely on you too much, and when you eventually have to lay someone off, it would be devastating.

It can foster a false sense of trust

You might be tempted to think that if you’re mates with your team, they will be more likely to go the extra mile for you. But the thing is, if you cross that line and don’t maintain some boundaries, it can have the opposite effect.

What often happens is that a false sense of trust develops, and employees may feel like they can come to you with any problem or complaint, without consequence. And before you know it, you’ve got yourself a dysfunctional work environment where people are unhappy and not performing up to their potential.

So it’s better to maintain some distance and not be all buddy-buddy. That doesn’t mean you can’t be friendly, but make sure there’s a clear boundary between personal and professional relationships.

It can make you seem unprofessional

Image Credits: entrepreneur.com

After all, you’re the boss, and you need to maintain a certain level of authority. When you let your guard down and act like a friend, it can undermine your authority and erode your verbal credibility.

Another reason why being too friendly can backfire is that it can create an atmosphere of informality that can build up chaos. Employees may feel like they can cut corners and take liberties with you. And when that happens, everything goes down the tubes.

So be nice, but remember that you’re still the head of the company!

It can make setting boundaries difficult

Imagine you’re the boss. You’re sitting in your office, and your phone rings. You pick up, and it’s one of your employees, asking for an early, urgent leave for the 5th time in a month.

Now, imagine the same situation, but this time, you’re good friends with that employee. It’s a lot harder to say no, isn’t it? When you’re friends with someone, it’s much more challenging to set boundaries and be the disciplinarian.

And that’s why being too chummy with your employees can backfire. It can make it tricky for you to be the boss your team needs you to be. You might find yourself constantly saying yes to their requests, and that’s not good for everyone.

You may be perceived as playing favorites

Playing favorites (even if you think you’re not doing so) can create tension and resentment in the workplace, and make it tough for other employees to feel like they can approach you with their concerns. Others may feel like they’re being “left out” or that they’re not good enough to get into your good books.

So how do you strike the right balance? Well, first of all, make sure that you’re being fair and consistent in your treatment of all employees. Secondly, try to be less personal and more professional in your interactions with them. And finally, remember that it’s crucial to maintain some social distance so the lines are not blurred.

While it can be tempting to be friends with your employees, you must maintain a certain level of professionalism. Being too sociable can backfire in several ways. As mentioned earlier, it can blur the line between boss and employee, which can lead to confusion about who is in charge. It may also make some individuals feel uncomfortable, for fear of offending you. Ultimately, it’s good to note that being too friendly with your employees can lead to overall confusion, and is best avoided.