“When we are no longer able to change a situation – we are challenged to change ourselves.” – Viktor Frankl
Do you feel happy with your work? For many, the answer will be yes. They enjoy what they do or, at least, tolerate it. Even if the work is not fun, people can find meaning in it or enjoy the day-to-day with their coworkers. But some people are not happy with that. What can you do about it?
There are a few options on the table.
First, you can pursue what will make you happy. Easier said than done, right? But unless you start doing, it won’t happen for you.
You can start experimenting to find what you want or take more serious steps towards something you have already chosen. This can mean learning a specific skill, taking a course, or finding another job.
You can always change career paths. Even if you don’t get to become an astronaut or prima ballerina, it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to work or have a fulfilling hobby related to space or ballet.
But sometimes that’s not really the option, for whatever reason. Maybe there isn’t anything you would rather be doing. Not everything is lost in this situation, either.
You can find ways to feel happier with your current situation. You can be happy even if the world is not working how you want it to. If what you do is not the best, there are still ways to make your peace with it.
You might not find happiness in your work but something important is to find satisfaction. Work can be a means to an end. It can be a way for you to engage with people you like or to help your loved ones. It can be the satisfaction of a job well done.
If you can’t change jobs or career paths, it’s worth exploring how you can frame your work to feel happier. It can be just a part of your life or a means to an end. You can find a constructive way to frame it for yourself.
The situation might be the same, but your outlook and your mindset can be different. This is what makes you happier or less satisfied with life. And it’s something you can control and change! Just find what works for you.
