Sometimes . . .

So - I was talking with some friends over the weekend about work/life balance.

We talked about the fact that sometimes we become completely engrossed in our work - and it’s all-consuming. 

But sometimes . . . we take a step back and we wonder if this job is really the right job. Sometimes - we’re just not into our jobs. After working in the same position for a while, you feel like you’ve learned everything there is to know about it and the work is not stimulating anymore. 

My friends were talking about the importance of a happy life because you start to realize that the work you do is funding the fun you can have outside of work, such as the latest decorating project, or the upcoming vacation that you’ve been dreaming of taking.

Even when we aren’t feeling completely inspired by work, we can feel inspired by what our work is helping us accomplish or support elsewhere in our lives. Then we can respect what we do and keep us on track - without slipping into a feeling of frustration. 

So, even if this Monday morning has you less than excited about going into the office, you can remember that you’re doing what you need to do in order to afford your life. Your office needs you and wants you to perform your best when you’re there. 

And about that lack-luster feeling about the job? Give yourself some time - either some new project will come up, or some new opportunity for a promotion might occur and you’ll feel inspired and motivated by your work again, or you’ll feel led to search for a new job. In either of these situations, time will be your friend. Give yourself time to realize what’s going on in respect to your feelings. Doing your best job gives your employer a good reason to assign you the new important project which puts you in the position for a promotion. And if you’ve decided to search for something new, time allows you to think about what type of new job to look for and develop the skills you might need for a new role. 

Sometimes, a steady job that’s not too draining of your energy or schedule is a good thing to allow you to pursue other interests outside of work. In the end, the fulfilled life is the ultimate goal. The best part is that you get to define “fulfilled” and what that means to you.