If
you let it, life can certainly get you down sometimes. Maybe your boss
is on a war rampage or there's bad news coming out about your company
that may cause layoffs. Perhaps you're in a permanently bad mood and you
can't snap out of it. Unless you are clinically depressed and need to
seek medical help, you may want to try some of these tips to see if they
may help you feel happier at work.1. Identify the cause of your bad mood and make a plan.
If you have a horrible boss or a miserable co-worker, it may be pretty easy to nail down the crux of your problem. When something in your life is causing you stress, there are only two ways to deal with it: eliminate the stress or change how you react to it. Don't ignore either option. If your boss is a bully or you have co-workers you wouldn't recommend to your worst enemy, it's a good idea to start planning an exit strategy. At the same time, keep in mind, you can decide not to let them irritate you. The jury may be out on if it is harder to find a new job or to adjust your reactions, but neither will happen until you get started. Make a plan to change things and write down the steps to get there.
2. Get some sleep.
If you're sleep deprived or generally don't get enough rest, it's easy to become irritable and moody at the least provocation. If you realize you haven't had a good night's rest in weeks, start to think about how you can do better. Avoid caffeine. Learn ways to relax before you go to bed and make sure to give yourself some down time between work and rest. Don't read or watch anything that will make you aggravated when it's bedtime. You may find getting some extra zzz's will help your mood.
3. Exercise.
Even if you're not a gym rat, moving around more can help put you in a better mood. Take frequent walks during the day, even if it's just up the stairs or around the office. Try to carve out some time outside of work to do something fun and active.
4. Meditate.
Some people swear by this technique that helps quiet the mind. Read up on different options and try adding a little mediation into your daily routine. You may find it helps you manage difficult times.
5. Create a bad mood busting playlist.
Music can certainly soothe even the most savage beast. Create a playlist of your favorite mood-enhancing songs and keep it handy for when you see a stressful period down the pike.
6. Figure out what makes you laugh.
Is there a movie or TV show that always makes you laugh? A friend who keeps you in stitches whenever you get on the phone? Take some time to do something relaxing, even if it is turning on your favorite sit com or calling an old pal who has a future in stand-up comedy.
7. Count your blessings.
Literally make a list of things you are grateful about. Hopefully, if you really think about it, you can think of many things to appreciate. If you try to focus on the good instead of honing in on what makes you miserable, it can shift your mood a little bit.
8. Volunteer
What causes do you care about? The quickest way to improve your mood is to use your skills and energies to help someone else. Whether you become active in a cause and volunteer on a regular basis with a formal organization, or perhaps do something special for someone who needs it occasionally, stepping outside of your normal routine to help another person can really help you feel better about yourself.
Don't underestimate the potential you have to change how you feel. Like most things, nothing changes until you decide to influence the change, so make a point to take some steps to get in a better mood before another day goes by.