Things were interesting when you first started out — new people, new environment, new things to learn. But now you’ve met everyone, you’ve figured out pretty much everything there is to know, and the things started to slow down. What’s left is just mundane routine and you’re dying for new challenges.
Realistically, it’s impossible to feel energized and motivated all the time. Some days you feel productive, and other days you just don’t feel like doing anything no matter how hard you try. You stare at the computer screen for minutes, hours perhaps, forcing yourself to work. But you find yourself simply going through the motion, hardly care about the work you’re doing. You’re totally uninspired, and you wonder if you’re on the right career path.
So here we are to the rescue, giving you some tips on how to stay motivated when your work is boring.
1. Change the environment
Working at the same spot every day can eventually wear you out and make you feel trapped. It’s good to change the scene every now and then to keep yourself motivated at work. If you’re a creature of habit, give yourself a chance to try moving to a different area in the office to work or change your work routine a little bit. You might be surprised how the little changes here and there can help chase away the boredom blues and get you inspired again.
2. Know what motivates you
Obviously making money is the main reason why people get jobs but what other things that motivate you to work for the company? Do you work there to get experience or because you believe in the company’s vision? Constantly remind yourself why did you choose to join this company and if the motivating factors are still the same. If not, figure out why and seek for solutions.
The most common reason of being bored at work is because you feel like your work is pointless and trivial. While replying to emails or compiling data on Excel may seem mundane, don’t underestimate the importance of these small tasks as every tasks is part of something big. Once you shift your mindset and focus on the bigger picture, you’ll find yourself more motivated than before.
3. Just do it
Don’t let procrastination get the best of you. Sometimes the best way to get motivated is to start doing something. You can make a to-do list, write down every single tasks on hands and set a realistic deadline for each task. Once you start doing it and slowly crossing each task on your list, you’ll gain the momentum to work and feel much better about yourself.
So, instead of waiting around for that motivation to come, dive into the work already and you’ll be done in no time!
4. Take a short break in between work
Most people were told that taking breaks in between work is a big no-no and everyone should be 100% focus during working hours. However, being stuck in the same position for hours will not only reduces your productivity, but also increases your boredom at work.
If your job requires you to glue to your seat most of the time, try to move around every 30 minutes. Anything that makes you get out of your seat counts! It can be getting a drink from the pantry or walking around the building. Worry that you might be too drawn into the “break’? Set a timer or an alarm to remind you that it’s time to get back to work.
4. Unplug from work
Are you constantly finding yourself stuck in the work mode and it just seems impossible to unplug yourself from work? If the answer is yes, you might be on the way to a burnout. Or worse, hating your job.
It’s important to take a break from work when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Take a day or two off from work to recharge and unwind. Even on a daily basis, set a cut-off time from work such as stop answering work emails or phone calls after working hours, and make it known to your boss. It may seem like a small move but it’s an effective way to unplug yourself from work and enjoy your personal time. You’ll find yourself more energized and motivated to work after taking a well-deserved break.
5. Ask for feedback
If you find yourself bored at work all the time because your work isn’t as challenging and you’re ready to take on more responsibilities, initiate a conversation with your boss. It can be nerve-wrecking to ask your boss for feedback but it’s a crucial communication skill to have at any workplace. Be proactive and you don’t have to wait for the performance review to bring this up. Talk to your boss and find out how they think of your performance.
Be open-minded and receptive towards constructive criticism, if your boss thinks that you need to improve in a certain aspect, be willing to listen and work on it. Never use a defensive tone when you’re asking for feedback, instead be genuine and thankful for the learning opportunity.
6. Surround yourself with positive people
Similar to happiness, boredom is contagious. If everyone in the office is feeling unmotivated or the work culture is negative, it can be hard for you to be different. Hence, it’s important to surround yourself with people who have a positive outlook about their job. Work with people who genuinely like what they are doing and it will definitely help to motivate you to be better.
7. Celebrate wins
No matter how big or little those achievements are, celebrate them. Acknowledge all the good you are doing. Your wins in life will motivate you, encourage you and will help you see how good you are.
Treat yourself with small things and don’t underestimate how gratifying it can feel to recognize tiny advancements.
Find these tips useful? We have more career advice, workplace tips, and job search tips on our blog. Don’t forget to check them out!
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