Sommaire:
1. Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work
2. How to be fulfilled at work?
1. Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work
No one can be truly happy at home if they feel miserable at work. As the philosopher Aristotle so aptly put it: "Pleasure in the trade puts perfection in the work". But what if you don't feel happy at work? What if the sound of that morning alarm fills you with dread? Does your day drag on so much that you keep staring at the clock, counting down the hours until it's time to go home?
Unfortunately, a recent Ignition study revealed that only 25% of people in France feel fulfilled at work. This means that almost three quarters of the working population are not getting the job satisfaction they need. Being unhappy in your job doesn't just affect the quality of your work; it also has a negative impact on your quality of life.
After a hard week's work in a job that makes you anxious, you'll probably start your weekend feeling tired and resentful, which will put a strain on your family life.
2. How to be fulfilled at work?
2.1. Get to know yourself: find your Ikigai
In simple terms, ikigai is the Japanese meaning of a person's raison d'être. A Venn diagram showing the four elements of Ikigai can be used as a tool to identify your dream job. The belief is that if you devote your life and work to something you're passionate about, you'll find true fulfillment. These four questions can help you find your Ikigai:
- What do I love?
- What am I good at?
- What does the world need?
- What can I get paid for? Are you creative and imaginative, or analytical and logical?
Do you enjoy working in a team, exchanging ideas with others, or do you work better alone? It's important to find a role that matches your interests and allows you to play to your strengths. Perhaps you'll come to the conclusion that you're simply in the wrong job. On the other hand, maybe you're in the right field, but you need to make a few changes to flourish.
2.2 Setting goals
If we don't evolve, we stagnate. If you've been in the same job for a while, you may be getting bored. Now's the time to think about where you want to go. Set goals and objectives with your manager so that you have something to work towards. Your manager should hold regular appraisals of your work to discuss progress.
2.3 Learning new skills
When we step out of our comfort zone and learn something new, it can be extremely satisfying. Your employer should offer you the opportunity to grow and develop new skills. Find out if there are any training courses available in your workplace to help you progress.
2.4 Foster a sense of self-confidence
When a new challenge presents itself, it's all too easy to fall prey to the dreaded imposter syndrome. You may think you're not up to the job, but you need to silence that inner critic! Your manager or customer trusts you for a reason. Think back to your previous achievements and allow yourself to feel proud - this will give you the confidence to succeed.
2.5 Be methodical
If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of work you have, take a breath. Make a list of tasks in order of importance and tick them off as you go along. This will give you a sense of satisfaction. And if the workload is really too much, ask for help; talk it over and let your manager know.
2.6 Declutter your desk
If your desk is a chaotic pile of papers and post-its, you'll feel just as disorganized. Take the time to declutter - it'll help you feel much more focused on your tasks and you'll complete them much more efficiently.
2.7 Take regular breaks
Don't sit looking at the screen all day, it'll drain your energy and make you less productive. Rest your eyes and take the breaks you're entitled to. The day will go faster and you'll get more done, which will lead to greater job satisfaction.
2.8 Maintain a work-life balance
Work for a living, not the other way around! Your work doesn't have to define you as a person. Don't get into the habit of working overtime and neglecting your family life. Make sure you use your free time to do the things you love. Watch out for signs of burnout at work and learn to switch off after hours. If your job is making you really unhappy and you can't see any way out, it may be time to look for something new.
2.9 Maintain positive relationships with colleagues
Take the time to be friendly and helpful to your colleagues. Talk to them, get to know them and, if they need help, be ready to lend a hand. Helping others and developing bonds is a great way to feel fulfilled.A sense of camaraderie and collaboration with colleagues can make a big difference In fact, according to a survey by Office vibe, 70% of people say that friendships at work are the most crucial element for a happy working life.
2.10 Take care of your health
Your physical or mental well-being is below average, your work is likely to suffer. Make sure you eat well and get plenty of exercise to help you relax and burn calories. Get those feel-good endorphins and you'll feel like you can achieve anything!
2.11 Don't compare yourself to others
A company is made up of many different personalities with a variety of skills, but they all have one thing in common: everyone has a positive contribution to make. The skills you bring are uniquely yours, so learn to value your contributions.