When your inbox is overflowing, your boss is on the warpath, and your stress levels are through the roof, it can be difficult to feel positive about your job and the work you do. Even if you have your dream job, burnout and stress can still happen. Here are some tips for what can you do to stave off unhappiness and stay positive:
 
Discover Your Routine
 
Not everyone thrives on doing the same from day to day, but even those who need constant change can benefit from finding something they do each day, especially something they like to do. This will give you a reasonable goal and something to look forward to, even on the days where everything is going wrong. The benefits of routine are many, but aside from the mood boost, you’ll also get more done!
 
Don’t Get Complacent
 
Boredom is the worst, and if you feel as though you’ve reached your knowledge limit at your job, chances are, you’ll lose all interest in it. You’ll feel more optimistic about your job if you’re constantly learning new things, about your position, your company, or yourself. Not only will your boss appreciate your hard work, you’ll feel more accomplished and better about waking up in the morning for work.
 
Chat it Up
 
Remember when you were little, and school was so exciting because you just wanted to see your best friend? Well, apply that to your work environment. If you have people that you like and are genuinely happy to see each day, it won’t be such a drag. You spend 40 hours a week at work, so making friends will make you happier.
 
Be Nice
 
In the same vein as making friends, being nice will heighten positivity at work. If you had to go to work each day and sit across from Cruella De Vil, it wouldn’t be a cake walk, so keep that in mind. Your boss knows the benefits of niceties too. Marc Anidjar, attorney and co-founder of Anidjar and Levine, P.A. sees having a positive environment for employees just as important as making the client feel comfortable: "Taking care of clients is important. However, if our employees feel uncomfortable, isolated, or unwelcome, the quality of our work and the impact we have in our clients' lives declines. We can only be the best if everyone puts their best foot forward and makes an effort to contribute to a positive atmosphere." Don’t forget to recognize the efforts of your co-workers and yourself. Approval and appreciation go a long way!
 
Take Care of Yourself
As with anything in life, your health is the most important thing. It can be hard to manage work and your own life, but if you’re not taking care of yourself, you and your work will suffer. Eat healthy, exercise, and get enough sleep! And if you’re feeling especially burnt out and have the option of taking a day or two off, use it. If you can take time for yourself, you’ll be happier and more willing to work hard while at work.
 
Living in a career-driven society, it can be overwhelming at work, often leaving you feeling drained and sick of the 9 to 5 grind. Maintaining positivity at work and about your job can seem nearly impossible at times, but these are just a few things you can do to buoy your spirits.