How to Instantly Boost Your Mood at Work
Most office jobs are so repetitive that they affect our overall mood both at work and at home. You wake up early for five days a week and go to work just to sit for 8-9 hours of repetitive tasks. Then like clockwork, you log off and head home just like everybody else.
While working, we also start to feel sour on ourselves and others. Sometimes it’s because of some negativities of the working environment. Other times it’s just due to some form of existential crisis.
So, if you’re looking for a quick way to feel better while you’re at work, then this list of tips is perfect for you.
1. Snack on “happy foods” while working
As the SNICKER ad says, “You’re not you when you’re hungry.” I totally agree with this. Hunger even at the slightest hint can cause us to be easily irritated. Prevent this from happening by carrying snacks with you to work.
And if you’re feeling lazy, snacks help in motivating you as well. Good examples of snacks that motivate workers and give happiness are walnuts, bananas, whole grains, berries, and dark chocolates.
2. Appreciate having a job
Think about the unfortunate people who would give everything to be where you are. Not everyone works in an airconditioned environment with no work hazards. Some are homeless and others have no property of their own.
Be grateful for having an occupation that pays your mortgage and puts food on your table. The first step to happiness is to be content with the blessings you receive from your hard work.
3. Be positive and friendly towards colleagues
Smile at a coworker. Simple acts of positivity make all the difference in the world. Even a small chuckle-worthy joke by the water cooler is sure to put a smile on the faces of everyone there for hours.
4. Look at pictures of cute animals
We all need a heartwarming image when we feel gloomy. It wouldn’t hurt to take a minute of your working hours to search “cute puppies” or “cute kittens” on Google. But the most important tip, use your office PC for searching, not your phone. You’ll appear busy to your superior while getting a daily dose of cuteness.
5. Drink more water
Our brains are mostly water. If we begin to thirst, our mind becomes exhausted. By rehydrating ourselves, our brain’s cognition and concentration improve. This results in having our emotions and mood balanced out.
Combine your trip to the water cooler while radiating positiveness on your way. Smile to anyone you pass as suggested in #3.
6. Listen to music
It doesn’t matter if you listen to Metallica, Post Malone, Celine Dion, or The Beatles. As long as you feel happy while listening to an artist while working, put their songs on play.
7. Stand up and stretch
Sitting on your office chair for long periods of time can make you exhausted. Every worker who feels tired but wants to get the work done will get frustrated. To avoid this from happening, get off your chair and stretch those limbs.
By standing up and stretching, you’re increasing blood flow and circulation to your muscles and brain. Your mind becomes clearer and your focus is restored. You might as well stretch your way to the water cooler for a drink.
Drinking water will help in reminding you to stand up from time to time by signaling you for peeing. You can also stretch in your own office as well.
8. Take a short walk
Being in the office for most of the day can be suffocating. Don’t hesitate to leave the building to get some outdoor air. The moment you’re out, you’ll feel free and happy. You can go to the park while you’re at it. But don’t forget the tasks you’ve left undone.
9. Watch a short funny video
If the option of leaving the office is unavailable, watch any funny video on YouTube using your PC or phone. Make sure that the video doesn’t last for more than two minutes.
At work, only you can help yourself survive mentally. Keeping a picture of your family or something you love on the desk helps in motivating you as you work. Don’t forget to have something to look forward to during the weekends as well. It can be an outdoor activity with your loved ones or simply just hanging out with friends.