Change Room

Brainstorm how you can liven up things in the office with new projects. “Think about initiatives you’d like to get involved in, and then talk to your boss,” suggests career consultant Katie Roberts (katieroberts.com.au).
A change like this can do a world of good. Tiffany Quinlan, HR director of recruitment specialists Randstad, says, “It’s a great way to breathe life into your workplace attitude.”

Just Joking

Stop bashing on your keyboard and take a moment to have a laugh with your workmates. It doesn’t have to be an in-depth, half-hour ROFL-fest. A simple joke, shared with your office neighbours, will boost morale. “Laughter reduces stress and relaxes the body,” Quinlan points out. “Plus, it breeds positivity and increases productivity levels.”

Getaway Car

Hoarding annual leave? Your restlessness might be a clue that you need a break from work – time away will make you want to come back. “Not taking holidays can lead to us getting bogged down by little things,” says Quinlan. “A getaway helps us remember what we love about our jobs – like the people around us, the sense of purpose, or the satisfaction of achieving goals.”

Open All Hours

Instead of going straight home to mindlessly watch TV, or to a pub to drink away your day, enrich your after-hours life by learning a new skill. “Try doing a short course outside of work, like creative writing, massage or a new language,” Roberts says. “You’ll exercise your brain and increase your work-life balance.” An enriching evening will help you enjoy your day job more.

Focus Group

If your workplace doesn’t run team-building days, organise your own. A staff social event doesn’t just encourage unity, it boosts enthusiasm, too. “Try a cooking class, bowling night, rock-climbing session or taking part in a charity event,” Roberts advises. “A group event like this will bring more energy into your job and that of your colleagues.”

Office Perks

A boring workspace will usually result in loss of motivation or inspiration. So bring in some happy snaps, fun stationery or your favourite quotes to brighten up your days. You could even spread the joy around.
“Make a staff photo mural for a wall, adopt an office pet fish, or take in a few plants to create a new and more inviting space,” recommends Roberts.