How to Love Your Job in Thirty-Seconds or Less

You know that old paradox about bums not feeling well about themselves because they don't have a job? And then once they land a job, they still don't feel well precisely because they have a job. Well, it doesn't really take a genius to figure it out. Jobs can be stressful, but not every one of us is a millionaire. So whether we like it or not, we'll just have to put up with our jobs to keep us from going hungry. That is, until we hit the jackpot in the lottery.

But here's the thing. You CAN like your job. If you can't love it, at least learn to like it and see its bright side. Let's admit it, most jobs are crappy anyway, and this writer thinks that the only noble professions to have survived the twenty-first century are teacher, doctor, nurse, firefighter, janitor, dog-walker, and baker. (Of course, there are more), but the point here is that most jobs in this world are, um, well, just excuses for laptops and neckties; no offense.

So, if you happen to be stuck in that other category of not so-noble job, take heart. If you have a crappy job, that doesn't mean you should put in a crappy effort at it. If you're a secretary for a pharmaceutical company that specializes on weight loss diets, then be the best darn secretary ever. If you're a research specialist plotting the next big thing in golf balls, be the best darn research specialist. Take pride in your job. Be a first-rate version of yourself in the workplace.

Identify stress when it shows up and beat it up good right at the start. No job is ever boring if you know how to amuse yourself. Put on some relaxing music. Make your workstation as comfortable as possible; prop up photos of your family, or some memento just to make you feel at home. Have healthy relationships with your workmates. And then do your job the best way possible.

Remember, it's just a job. At the end of the day, be glad that you did your best, and don't despair over things already beyond your human powers. Never let your job enslave you because there are better things in life out there in the world.

And oh, I'm serious about the dog-walker.

Neoli Lancel Marcos writes articles and press releases for Oz Free Online- this piece he made served as an article exclusive for Oz Free Online Jobs - which offers job search and job listing opportunities in Australia