I can’t believe 2010 is almost over. I usually don’t take New Year’s resolutions seriously but for the past 5 years I have.

My resolutions are usually the same year after year. I promise myself to go to the gym more, stop bad habits and save more money. I would think to myself if I did all these things I would be happier. Well even I I kept all these resolutions it still didn’t change the fact that I hated my job and was miserable at work.

I worked for a great hospital for almost 5 years. I did love my job (I was dealing with compensation and benefits) but I hated my boss who was condescending. Year after year nothing much changed and I wondered why I stayed on for as long as I did.

I developed a nasty attitude towards work and even some of my coworkers started to annoy me. I was tired of my negative attitude and being controlled by a pay check. I decided after nothing improved that I needed a change. I quit my job and moved to Vancouver, BC.
I was more excited to go to the unknown rather then sit in a cubicle and pray for Friday’s. I’m now more happier then I’ve ever thought I could be and it’s all because of these 6 promises I made myself every year.

“In order that people may be happy in their work, these three things are needed: They must be fit for it. They must not do too much of it. And they must have a sense of success in it.” – Happy at work quotes by John Ruskin

I decided to take control of my life and career. Each year I promised myself a few things that would make me happier and specifically a happier employee.

6 New Year’s Resolutions

1. Be Positive
   My boyfriend always tells me that it’s easier to dwell on the negative or bad stuff rather then point out the positive or good stuff. If you stay positive and have a good attitude towards things you will see that you become more motivated. If you have a positive attitude towards your job you will start to enjoy it more.
2. Turn Colleagues Into Friends
   I know a lot of people who wouldn’t leave their jobs because of all the great friends they have made. It’s great to have some one to talk with and get to know better. A good friend can be the help you need to get up on those tougher Mondays.
3. Motivate Yourself
   A lot of people are bored at work so don’t just sit there and wait for someone else to help you. Really think about your career and where you would like to see yourself. Start asking for different projects to work on or take some night courses and learn something new. If you wait for someone else to help you you will be waiting a very long time.
4. Keep Learning
   Have you always wanted to be that person people go to with their Excel problems? Then teach yourself or take a course. Finishing a project or task always feels good and helping others feels even better. There are great online courses that can help you become the expert in the office.
5. Take Breaks
   Some days can be more frustrating then others. Learn to take more breaks or even eat lunch outside once in a while. Going for a short walk can really help you relax and focus. Oh and don’t feel guilty when you step out for 5-10 minutes because your colleagues that smoke step out at least 7-8 times a day to feed there gross habit.
6. Stay Away From The Gossip
   Having friends at work is great but try not to get yourself caught up on all the negative talk. Everyone likes to vent because it feels good. It feels even better when you have other people agreeing with you and knowing that they are just as unhappy as you are. When you catch yourself being negative or gossiping just remember it takes the same amount of energy to say something nice or be positive.

Other things I promised myself was to take advantage of Group RRSP’s and use my benefits more. Scheduling a massage at least once a month really helped me to relaxed.

Job stress and work anxiety can really effect your mood and health. These 6 promises I made myself really helped open my eyes and see that I needed a change. If you try everything and you’re still unhappy at work then remember that your health and happiness should be more important then your paycheck.

Happy New Year!!!

Photo by: SashaW