Let me share the ultimate 3 steps to stop hating your job and make it feel like play.
Your work should feel effortless.
I know that many out there struggle to enjoy the job they do.
When I don’t integrate play into my work, I hate what I do too.
By the end of this post, you’ll know what tactics I’m experimenting with to make my work feel like play so I can enjoy the journey more.
Step 1: Implement FUN Zones
I have a 3d printed miniature putting course, 20 golf balls and a putter in my office, and I make longer and longer puts during calls.
Next to that, I picked up a mini trampoline for free. When I feel stressed or tense, I jump on it 20 times.
It truly flushes my brain. It feels like all built-up toxins in my head get flushed down my body. But, of course, Tony Robbins does it too, so it must be good.
I know many people enjoy a game of ping pong at the office, but I don’t recommend it because the sound is too distracting for others.
Step 2: Schedule more ‘ME’ MOMENTS
I love to listen to podcasts.
I specifically schedule moments into my week where I can listen to my favourite podcasts. For example, I used to plan back to back phone calls during long car rides to customers in the past. These days, I listen to my favourite podcasts in between calls.
Btw, currently, my favourite podcast is My first Million.
Step 3: Without positive self-talk, you can’t win.
Self-talk is the key to cultivating a positive mental mindset.
Studies show that self-talk is crucial for shifting your perspective on things.
No wonder Think and Grow Rich and the practice of affirmations has become so popular.
How you speak to yourself is how you think and how you think will become how you act.
Every day, When I’m in the elevator, I look in the mirror, and I tell myself that today’s work will feel like play.
Bonus Step: The Smiling Mini-Game
How long can you keep a smile?
An enjoyable and short trick to quickly boost mental health and happiness I learned from a literal madman:
- Before you enter your office building, set a timer.
- Now put on the biggest smile you can squeeze on your face.
- Walk into your office and smile at everyone and everything you see when you enter.
- Keep the bright smile on your face as long as you can.
- When you notice your smile disappearing, the game stops.
- Get your timer out and markdown your time somewhere.
Repeat this game every day and try to get longer and longer smiling times until you’re smiling the entire day.
It is one of the most potent self-help games I know.