The key to happiness at your job isn’t about the big stuff — it’s all in the details.
Whether it’s finding the perfect desk plant, eating a delicious snack or doling out a few well-deserved compliments, you’d be surprised how fast the little things can turn your day around. And who doesn’t want a Monday that feels like a Friday?
These 15 simple day-brighteners are sure to do the trick.
You personalize your home; why not personalize your desk? Make your cube or office a pleasant place to work with a few framed photos, a decorative pen holder or a tiny cactus.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
Get some fresh air and increase cerebral blood flow by taking a brisk walk during the workday. It doesn’t have to be long — ten minutes will do the trick.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking between two and three liters of water per day. If plain H2O is getting boring, try these hydrating foods.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
Yes, receiving compliments feels good. But giving compliments allows you to facilitate a positive, giving environment yourself, which feels even better. More importantly, it might make someone’s day.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
Having plants around contributes to a healthy, vital environment, which can keep you energized. For an easy-care option, try a cactus. For added usefulness, consider an aloe plant, which can be used to soothe sunburn.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
You might feel silly talking to yourself in the mirror, but it could actually improve your workday. According to the British Psychological Association, addressing yourself as “you” may be an effective happiness booster. Why? It may trigger positive core memories of being encouraged as a child.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
Real mugs and plates cut down on paper and plastic waste. They also make your office space feel more homey and comfortable.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
…or whatever makes you laugh. Laughter isn’t just a mood booster, either. It actually stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the amount of endorphins released by the brain.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
…it’s fun.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
According to the Harvard Health Blog, volunteering is beneficial for both mental and physical health. Helping others helps you feel more connected and useful, and continued volunteerism could help bring down high blood pressure.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
They don’t just smell pretty. Each essential oil has a unique function, from aiding digestion (peppermint) to soothing nerves (lavender, chamomile). A little packs a lot of punch, so you can keep a tiny vial at your desk.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
When you get to work in the morning, make a mini-list of your two or three most important tasks for the day. Dividing your week into smaller projects will make it seem a lot less daunting.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
Step away from the vending machine and pack a gourmet snack from home, like apples with almond butter, pomegranate seeds or homemade hummus and pita. You’ll be eating real, intentional food, and you’ll save a few laundry quarters.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
Were you ever pleasantly surprised by how much you remembered in the morning after a night of studying? The same principle applies at work. If you feel unfocused or zoned out, it’s probably time to take a break — you’ll retain information better.IMAGE: MASHABLE/VICKY LETA
If, despite your best efforts, you’re simply not happy with your job, it may be time to start hunting for a new one. It’s difficult to take that first step, but who knows — a change of scenery might be the mood booster you really need.
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