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We are all aware that work can be stressful, and other life events can also be stressful and make us unhappy or unproductive at work. When this occurs, you could feel overwhelmed, and your efforts go unrewarded. Do not fret! You’ll be better positioned to control your stress levels and be more productive by implementing these five easy techniques to be happier at work.

1. Regular exercise

Regular exercise lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and raises endorphin levels (feel-good chemicals). You don’t need to complete a marathon or spend an hour at the gym. Walking for as little as five minutes can release endorphins and make you happier.

The best method to relax after a hard day is through exercise. You’d be amazed at how much lighter and more at ease you can feel after venting on a punching bag, lifting weights, or running. It can also be a great chance to catch up with friends, enjoy the outdoors, and do things that bring you joy. Also, you might discover that working out helps you develop some of your best ideas!

2. Practice gratitude

We may be grateful for what we have, but how often do we consciously remind ourselves of everything we have to be thankful for? When we’re preoccupied with everything we need to get done, chasing our goals and striving for improvement, we sometimes forget to focus on all the great things we already have and are thankful for.

Focusing solely on things we don’t have or areas where we want to improve can negatively impact our mood and general wellbeing.

Take a few moments each day to think about everything you’re grateful to have in your life. You can do this during your walk or run or take some time to write them down. Many people find it beneficial to write three or four things they’re grateful for before going to sleep each evening.

Start to practice gratitude daily, and you’ll soon realise how much more positive it makes you feel.

3. Get more sleep or improve the quality of your sleep

Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things you can do to feel good and be productive. But it’s also crucial to get quality sleep, especially if we can’t get the required 7 to 8 hours each night.

When you don’t get enough sleep, or it’s of poor quality, your body is more vulnerable to negative emotions. You’re more likely to attract negative thoughts or focus on negative things around you! It also makes it more challenging to stick to your goals and make positive changes in your life.

One way to avoid this is by giving yourself an hour of ‘wind down’ time before going to sleep. Turn off screens, as the lights from screens decrease the flow of melatonin in the brain, making it more challenging to get to sleep.

Find a good book, get the lighting as low as practicable, or write in your journal to help your brain and body wind down.

4. Spend time with friends and family

Life is fast-paced, and it’s easy to get caught up in work; weeks or even months can pass before you know it.

You don’t want to miss out on precious time with friends and family—and it’s not just because they’re fun! Spending time with loved ones helps keep your spirits high so you can be happier at work.

A great way to ensure you spend time with loved ones is by scheduling regular events with them. Maybe even try something new, like learning a new skill or an exercise class. That way, you’ll always be able to look forward to catching up with them.

5. Listen to music you love

It’s no secret that music has a way of affecting the way we feel. Whether it’s the rhythm, rhythm and melody, or the words that are sung, music can help us relax, feel more energised and boost our mood. Create your perfect playlist for each feeling you may want to conjure up. Then when you need it, you have an ideal list to help boost your mood.

If you’re still struggling to feel happy and fulfilled at work, book a discovery call now to see how we can help you get your mojo back!

Author: Gemma Rolstone | Published 16th June 2016.