We all have those periods at work when we simply feel useless and all we want to do is just go to bed (at least I do). These are the moments when we all just want to have a time machine so that we can fast-forward the time we spend at work. Sadly, there are no time machines (yet).
But the problem remains, so what can you do? Well, instead of actually falling asleep and getting fired, it’s better to take a proactive approach and try to make it interesting for yourself. Like it or not, we all get bored at work from time to time, some more often than others.
This is why you need to learn how to fight that boredom and make your day more interesting. Work can be boring, but it doesn’t have to be if you learn how to adapt.
Take a break and refocus
Being bored at work doesn’t mean that you have a lot of free time. In fact, most of the times people get bored because they do the same repetitive work over and over again. Sadly, a lot of jobs are like this and changes rarely happen.
Instead of putting pressure on yourself to continue working even though you are feeling like a sloth, you should take a break to recollect yourself and relax your mind. Putting an imperative on yourself to be productive and work even if you don’t feel like it can increase stress and make it even more difficult to focus on work.
Even a 10 minute break can mean a lot. By putting your mind on something else, talking to coworkers, taking a walk or listening to some music can help you rewire your brain and give you a more positive perspective.
Make your office space more fun
Your workspace can be boring itself and make you become an obnoxious potato. Do something about your work area and make it more joyful and vivid. You can start with small things such as bringing a funny picture of someone you care for, decorations or practicing your hobby at work, if possible.
On the other hand, you can start creating deeper relationships with coworkers, talk with your peers, share experiences, tell jokes, talk about things you have in common, and so on. If you are that kind of person, do some practical pranks at the office or simply find a person with whom you can gossip around the office.
Ask for more/different responsibilities
Like I mentioned, the monotony of your job can be a major cause of boredom. One of the direct ways to solve this is to simply ask for different or additional responsibilities if you are bored because of the fact that you don’t have enough work.
With new daily tasks, you will get that dose of freshness that you want and need. Just remember the times when you had fun doing the work you still do. You can get that feeling again by switching to a different position.
If you think getting more responsibilities is what you need, then not only will you come off as a try-hard and a nerd, but you will also do something good for your career. Way to go! If these two are not an option, consider making new tasks by yourself. For example write a blog, water the plants or become the “official” event planner for your office.
Communicate and collaborate
If you work with a lot of other people, take that opportunity to interact with them and spend your time at work doing as much as you can. Instead of feeding your boredom, look to engage yourself by talking with your coworkers about various topics including work.
Just because you are coworkers it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t try and establish better relationships, and take it a step further when it comes to knowing each other and working together. Collaborating on projects and providing input can give you a fresh perspective and make you feel like you are accomplishing something as a team.
Improve your commute
For many people the boredom doesn’t start when they are at work, but even when they are going to their office, thinking about what awaits them. On the other hand, a lot of us have to travel a long way to get to work and this can be terribly exhausting.
To overcome these issues look for alternative routes where traffic is not that terrible or there are interesting things you can see to ease your mind. Additionally, seeing something new every day can help you break out of the monotony and get a more positive perspective.
Develop your skillset
Feeling bored about doing the same things over and over again without anything challenging coming your way? If this is the case, then make the most of the time at work for your career by learning new things. Try to be creative and come up with new solutions depending on your job.
There are many online learning methods you can rely on to acquire new skills. If you are really bored with your current job, take all the time you have to learn to do something else and when the time is right to try looking for another job.
Gamify
Gamification is a brand new concept that includes adding gaming elements to your everyday life. If you like playing games, you will love doing this as well and it will make your time at work a lot more fun. You can even include your coworkers and convince them to join the fun.
For example, you can create a competition between yourself and measure monthly performance. Collect rewards and achievements for the good work you’ve done. Not only can it be a lot of fun and make work easier, but your boss will probably be satisfied with you encouraging everyone to do better.
These are the 7 ways you can try and break your boredom at work. Try them out and tells us about your experience. If you have your own methods that you’ve used successfully, feel free to share and help others be happier at their jobs.