Shift Your Thinking
Illustration by MyNameIsRene
I had an epiphany the other day. Well, it wasn't really an epiphany, I knew it all along. But it was helpful to read a few other blogs to validate my own thoughts.
My epiphany is we can choose to be happy. And this state of mind comes from within and has nothing to do with anything external: cars, gadgets, relationships, jobs, etc. You CAN'T rely on anything external for happiness. Because cars, gadgets, relationships, jobs come and go.
Most of our days are lived in neutral. Neutral means life's pendulum hasn't swung in either direction: we didn't win the lottery, nor are we grieving the loss of a loved one. It's just a day. Or is it?
So if we are in neutral most of the time, how come we don't try to shift into a positive frame of mind? More specifically, how come we always say we are "busy" and "slammed" at work? It may be true, but that negative reinforcement is going to build up and soon enough you'll be stressed out on days when you're actually not that busy. Why not say you're having a "great" or "productive" day?
Why do job seekers say I'm "never" going to find a job or "nobody" is hiring? Alternatively, you can say "I'm taking my time to find a GREAT job."
Let's change the way we communicate at work and during our job search. Let's make it a positive experience. I think you'll notice a difference in your mindset. And if your job truly is soul crushing, make a plan to get out now. And be sure to keep interviewing until you find a company you'd be ecstatic to join!
Check out the following blogs for more on this topic: http://rechargeyourmind.com/, http://www.marcandangel.com/ and www.zenhabits.net.
What are some of your favorite self-development blogs?
This sounds like it was written by someone who actually has a job. And one he likes, at that.
Brian,
Thank you for your great blog! It has been so helpful in my job search, especially this most recent post. Love it! Great reminder that we can shift into positive gear based on the stories we tell, i.e. "I'm taking my time to find a GREAT job," instead of "so many law firms have done layoffs and it's tough out there."
Nick, thanks for your comment. It's tough out there. I once had an 11-month job search, so I know what it's like to be out of full-time work and scraping by. But it isn't any easier if you wake up every morning with a negative outlook. Good luck. Brian
Hey Brian,
I really agree with this idea of "shifting of thinking". This idea actually applies to everything in life, but especially at work. Some people I work with can sometime get really wrapped up in their work and walk around with a little built up negativity. Me being the perky, young intern, I found myself annoying a couple co-workers with my "livin' the dream" saying. But, for the most part I think I got some smiles around the office. Even when I get slammed all day with tedious tasks, I'm just happy to have an internship.
Pleasant people that give compliments and smiles make the world go around.