How to Be Happier at Work

The nine-to-five grind of an administrative job can take a toll on workplace happiness. It's not uncommon for secretaries, receptionists, and other administrative employees to become increasingly dissatisfied with their daily routine, but you don't have to turn in your two-weeks' notice to break free from a professional rut. Job satisfaction and happiness require two key elements: coping techniques and balance.

Every job has its ups and downs. From difficult coworkers to irate clients, an administrative position presents a number of challenges that can influence your level of workplace happiness. According to Gretchen Rubin, the New York Times best-selling author of The Happiness Project, professional relationships are important determinants for workplace happiness. For people in administrative and clerical roles, this is an especially salient point as a significant chunk of their office duties involves regular communications with fellow employees and higher ups. To be happier at work, it's important to surround yourself with people who can provide positive reinforcement.

When you're tasked with employee and client interactions on a regular basis, it's easy to let their emotions rub off on you. Thankfully, you can control your surrounding environment by limiting contact with people who are prone to complain or inclined toward negativity. Aside from necessary professional exchanges, it's always within your discretion to politely excuse yourself from a casual conversation with a colleague. By extracting yourself from situations involving whiny coworkers, you'll have a much better chance of experiencing workplace happiness.

It's important to maintain a balanced professional life, so it doesn't affect your personal commitments. As a secretary or administrative assistant, people may ask you for assistance with office-related tasks. Don't overwork yourself by performing too many favors for people who aren't your supervisors. An accommodating spirit might make you feel helpful and purposeful, but it can easily become a source of stress. Do everything you can to leave work at the office once your shift is over. Allow yourself time to explore hobbies and cultivate a rich social life. Personal enrichment outside of work will help you approach each day in the office with a fresh outlook.

According to psychologist Susan Fletcher, one effective technique for elevating your mood is to smile even when you're feeling down, which tricks the brain into thinking you're happy. When dealing with difficult circumstances at work, such as a filing error or an overbooked schedule, engaging in light exercise can have a rejuvenating effect, calming your emotions and allowing you to regain workplace happiness and productivity. Helpful mood-lifting exercises include a stroll outdoors and simple yoga stretches at your desk.

Job satisfaction is key to being a happy employee. If you're happy heading into work, you're more likely to be content at the end of the day. When you need help with workplace happiness, adjust the office environment to fit your needs without compromising your performance.

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