Reignite the spark and fall in love with your job again this February

Do you remember when you loved your job? The passion, the curiosity, and the drive to learn and grow? If you feel like those feelings have faded, you’re not alone. According to Indeed’s Work Happiness Score study, one-third of UK workers report being unhappy with their work.

The good news is there are ways to reignite the spark. From learning new skills to changing your work location, you can fall in love with your job again. Try these tips, whether you're facing remote work challenges, experiencing a dip in motivation, bouncing back from a career setback, or sensing the need for a change. 

It’s good to talk

Could whatever is causing your disengagement be fixed by speaking to your manager? Whether your work-life balance isn’t right, there’s little room for training or progression, or remuneration isn’t meeting your needs, have a conversation with your manager.

Connect with others

Good work friendships aid motivation. A 2018 Gallup poll revealed that 63% of women with a work friend were over twice as likely to be engaged during work. Remote work can make you feel isolated, lonely, and disconnected from your team and organisation. Nowadays, people’s networks shrink to those they only need to work with. Remember to communicate and collaborate with colleagues and clients and participate in virtual or in-person events.

Rediscover your purpose

Although comfortable, a job that does not challenge you is one you should consider leaving. Staying in a role that isn’t challenging can limit your career development and lead to feelings of complacency or frustration.

Remind yourself of why you chose your profession, industry or career path. Think about what value you bring to your organisation and your clients. Align your work with your personal and professional goals. Seek feedback and recognition for your achievements.

Motivation

Make a list of what makes you unhappy and lack motivation. Think about your salary and benefits, work-life balance, manager, colleagues, workplace and company culture. The exercise will help identify what’s bothering you. A healthy company culture aids motivation. Does your company promote collaboration, teamwork and transparency?

Tips to get motivated include:

• The two-minute role. In David Allen’s book Getting Things Done he states, “If it takes less than two minutes, then do it now.” This can get us started when motivation is lacking.
• Set small, measurable goals. Goal setting is a powerful way to keep motivation levels up.
• Make your bed. Admiral William H. McRaven's speech, "If you want to change the world, start by making your bed," is watched for a reason. Making your bed means you will have accomplished the day's first task. One task completed will turn into many tasks completed.

Remote work challenges

Remote work is the new norm, bringing with it challenges. In-person interaction for collaboration and creativity is missing from remote working. The initial excitement of working from home has faded, replaced by isolation and monotony. If you find yourself missing the office energy or struggling with motivation, a hybrid model or office-based role might suit you better.

There are advantages to working in an office that cannot compare to remote working. Meraki Talent’s 2022 LinkedIn poll (June 2022) found that over half (51%) of office and hybrid workers valued collaboration when working in the office.

Develop your skills

When was the last time you learned something new? Take advantage of employer-led training and development opportunities. Or seek out your learning resources online or offline. You can develop your skills through education, training, workshops, self-help, reading, and advice from a mentor or coach. Google Skills has free online resources. By investing in new skills and knowledge, you enhance your value in the job market and get a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in your role.

A change is as good as a holiday

Sometimes, the best way to reignite the spark is to change your work environment, role, or responsibilities. This could mean asking for more flexibility, autonomy, or support from your employer, or taking on new tasks or projects that challenge and inspire you.

But a holiday can be good

Workers fall into two categories: Those who plan their leave and put in requests on January 2nd and those who don’t. If you don’t plan your holiday time, the summer can vanish, and before you know it, it is Christmas. Taking a holiday from work has many benefits, including improved health, relationships, and success at work. The good news is that you get paid to take time off. A break can relieve burnout and stress and give you newfound motivation on your return.  An America’s International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans study found employees who take annual leave are 40% more productive and less depressed or fatigued compared to employees who don’t.

When it's time to find a new job

Your job should be more than just a routine; it should be a source of inspiration and satisfaction.  If you have outgrown your current position or organisation, you’ve quietly quit, or you’re unhappy with the culture or values, it’s time to look for a new job that better suits your aspirations. Recognising when it's time to quit and find a new job is a crucial step in your career.

Moving on

Don't settle for a job that doesn't ignite your passion. On average, we spend one-third of our lives at work.  So, explore new possibilities, overcome remote work challenges, and take the first step towards a happy professional life.  Having the right mindset is important when job searching as is considering your workplace non-negotiables.

At Meraki Talent, we are passionate about helping professionals like you find their next role. We are a leading recruitment agency specialising in the financial services, professional services, HR, and technology sectors. This February isn't it time you fell in love with your career again?