Where do we spend the majority of our time? For most people, it is at work, which is why it’s so important to practice good workplace habits. People with good work habits are more likely to be successful in their career than individuals who do not practice awareness, staying organized and focused on the main goals. Also, they have more time and energy to give to their personal lives. Who wouldn’t want more of a personal life?
Because of our culture’s importance regarding work, productivity, quality and competition, good work habits are more imperative than ever.
What comes to mind when you first think “workplace habits”? I used to think of stretching, taking a needed break, minimizing chat time and making a realistic list of goals for the day. While those ideas are all legitimate, I wondered: How else can we positively view our jobs and the manner in which we operate each day? How can we twist our perceptions to turn the mundane into something more exciting, even at the workplace?
Here is a different idea to consider if you want to improve your workplace habits:
Embrace Problems
While the term “problems” seems negative, it is actually one of the reasons your job exists. What does that really mean?
In Max Lucado’s book, Great Day Every Day, he explains the concept well, citing management consultant Robert Updegraff:
You ought to be glad for the troubles on your job because they provide about half your income. If it were not for the things that go wrong, the difficult people with whom you deal, and the problems of your working day, someone could be found to handle your job for half of what you are being paid. So start looking for more troubles. Learn to handle them cheerfully and with good judgment, as opportunities rather than irritations, and you will find yourself getting ahead at a surprising rate. For there are plenty of big jobs waiting for people who are not afraid of troubles.
When we truly take on the “embracing problems” mentality, it is amazing how much it can positively affect everyday life, as well as the future, at work and in our personal lives. Suddenly, each problem that pops up transforms into real opportunities—to learn, to grow and to serve. We realize that work problems translate to income and job security. Whether you like or dislike your job, the income that it provides is certainly worth being thankful for, and that is the basic step to start with: being thankful. (If you truly hate what you do, then it is obviously time to find a new job though.)
By positively changing how you view each issue at work, as well as how you deal with others, success is sure to come your way. A major aspect of what brings success is based on how we perceive reality and what actions we decide to take accordingly. So, if the new reality becomes, “Great, this customer is having an issue with the new product. This is the perfect opportunity to figure out improvements we need to make as a company as well as a chance to make this customer happy!” then you are well on your way.
With this constructive workplace mentality, your inner negativity is banished along with everyone who pessimistically feeds into its downward spiral. As you become more productive solving work issues, it is likely that others may feel jealous or insecure. They may wonder why they can’t get it together or be as optimistic as you are. Some people may pull away from you while others will be drawn your way. This is a natural shift as your actions—expressing your inner positive belief system—make bold statements. It is important to be sensitive to others, encouraging them and remaining positive. That way, co-workers will learn that you genuinely care about what you do and those you work with at the office.
By welcoming work issues, procrastination also is kept at bay. There is no leeway for it to wedge its way back into the workday. This positive approach to solving problems can change your everyday life. Will you let it?
