How to make the most of a job you do not like

We have spoken a lot about how important it is to find the right job, one that gives you job satisfaction and makes you happy.

However, it also happens that sometimes you are caught up in a job that you don’t really like, and for some or the other reason, you may not be able to switch to a different job of your choice yet.

So, while you are still in the job that is not your dream job, how do you make the best use of your time and also manage to get some motivation to give your job your best? We tell you how.

1. Look for the slightest positive: You do not like your job, but even in such a scenario, it is likely that there will be at least one good thing about your job that you like. Even though it may be a very small thing in the overall picture, trying to focus on that small bit of positive feeling can help you tide through and still go to work with the right mind. For instance, if there is nothing else that makes you feel good about your work, you could maybe take inspiration from how your effort is helping the end user and how it benefits someone else. You can always try and find a positive way to look at things like this.

2. Look at it as a means of paying the bills: Yes, we all have been in situations where we have taken up a job just to pay the bills, and honestly, there is nothing wrong in that. Try to cultivate a hobby, or take up a weekend class or workshop, so that along with your work, you also have something to look forward to that is of interest to you. And yes, when you do that, do think of your job as the reason that you are able to afford this interest.

3. Find a colleague with whom you can have some meaningful conversation: Socialize and don’t cut yourself off from your colleagues, just because you are not enjoying your work. You will be surprised to find that some of your colleagues also share the same interests and thoughts as you do! Many times, we end up judging people on how they behave while at work, and form strong perceptions. When you speak to your colleagues in a less formal environment, such as a tea break, you can talk about topics that are not related to work, and often these help you see the person as a whole, and not just as a work colleague.

4. Volunteer in a different department: If you are not entirely happy with your role, speak to your HR and ask about volunteer opportunities in other departments. Often, big companies allow their employees to take up after-office roles in other departments, especially those areas that have low staff strength but a sudden inflow of work. Let your HR know that you are interested and available. You can also sign up for various workshops and such with your organization, even those that are not directly involved in your present work role. In the process, you may come across something that you feel is what you would really love to do, and when you discover that, you can always talk about it to your senior or HR and see if you can be placed in that particular department.

All said and done, if you have tried all of the above and still feel that the work you are doing is not something you are motivated to do, or that makes you happy, make sure to continue your job search. You can find a lot of information on our site about how to find the perfect job that matches your interest. Till then, stay positive.