My new job is quite challenging. No, not a REAL new job – don’t get excited – but “your job now is to FIND a job.” It’s surprising the number of things that I have to figure out all over again.
Simple things like: What time should I get up in the morning? In this case, I decided to continue the general pattern I’ve had for several years – most days up at 7:10, unless I have an earlier meeting.
It’s not particularly important, I suppose, except that it puts me in the mindset that I’m going to work. If I get up at 8:00, then I’m in “weekend mode,” being lazy and ignoring work.
So how does this relate to those of you who are lucky enough to have a job right now? Here’s the thought: Pay attention to how you’re thinking about your job.
There’s a lot of things you might be taking into your work…
“Boy, I really hate going to work every day.” In this case, you’re going to approach everything with negativity. Every person you talk with will get the sense that you don’t enjoy their company.
“I’m determined to do something important today.” This determination will get you kick-started, especially if you have something which keeps your important goal visible until it’s done. That’s the magic behind goals and daily tasks, by the way – they help you to reinforce whatever determination and focus you’re able to build up.
“I’m afraid my job is going to go away.” Knowing a lot of people who are stuck in this mindset, I see that it makes them very conservative, which in itself can increase the likelihood of job loss. And your sense of self-worth diminishes, which reduces your resilience in the face of the unexpected.
My book tries to help people create a sense of enthusiasm and optimism based upon taking more control of the available options. I’d love everyone to be ending up their weekend with the attitude, “I can’t wait to see what opportunities will show up on Monday!”