7 ways to be happier at work

Being at work can take up a huge amount of your life (think around 92,120 hours over a lifetime!), so it’s important to be happy while you’re there. Cultivating an environment that makes you cheerful and positive can dramatically increase your motivation and productivity.

Here are 7 daily ‘happy habits’ to try for yourself:

1) Start the day right

There’s nothing worse than waking up late, rushing to get ready and leaving the house in a fluster. That’s why setting your alarm a little earlier than usual and setting aside some time for yourself can make the world of difference. Put together a nice breakfast, brew a perfect cup of coffee and treat yourself to some ‘me’ time. Feeling relaxed in the mornings can set the tone for the rest of the day, so concentrate on creating your perfect morning!

2) Celebrate the small victories

Each day at work is filled with mini victories that are often overlooked. If you’ve finished a project you’re proud of, no matter how big or small, allow yourself to celebrate the achievement. Each day you’re making a difference in some way or another; bear this in mind when your mood starts to slump.

3) Surround yourself with positivity

If you surround yourself with positive and uplifting people, it’s almost guaranteed that their high spirits will rub off on you. While you can’t always completely avoid the people who bring you down, try to minimise the time you spend with them where you can. Misery loves misery – don’t let them drag you down with them!

“Surround yourself with people who make you happy. People who make you laugh, who help you when you’re in need. People who genuinely care. They are the ones worth keeping in your life. Everyone else is just passing through.” – Karl Marx

4) Listen more than you talk

The happiest of people don’t always feel the need to shout. Sitting back and listening can often teach us the most. Not only will you learn things from others, but it can boost relationships too.

I like to listen more than I talk.

5) Eat well and exercise

A simple but effective trick that can help you feel better from the inside out. Try to introduce more exercise into your daily life – it’s not only great for your health but also releases endorphins – the chemical in the brain which makes you feel happy! Eating well can also boost your mood, energy and motivation.

6) Don’t whinge and whine

Every office has its token whiner – make sure it’s not you! It not only effects your own mindset but it can irritate other people and manifest negativity around you. If something is bothering you, try your best to change whatever it may be, or speak to someone who can help – don’t just whinge about it, it’s bad for your health!

7) End the day well

Set aside some time at the end of every day to sit back and reflect. Make sure you turn off any social media/screens/distractions at least an hour before you go to sleep. This will not only help you sleep better, but will also give you time to do something more beneficial, such as read a book or catch up with housemates or a family member.