Five Practical Hacks for Finding Joy At Work

Reading Time: 3 mins

Work in today’s world can feel like a burden sometimes. Whether you’re battling rush hour traffic or “kindly find attached” emails in your PJs, the question “How’s work?” often leads to a long sigh and a string of complaints.

Life can be a rollercoaster, and work often feels like the adulting role we have to play to pay the bills.

But what if there’s more to it? What if God designed work to be something fulfilling? Something that brings us purpose and even… joy?

God calls us to reframe our mindset about work and see beyond the paycheck. In Genesis, the Bible tells us that God worked. He created the heavens and the earth. Then, He looked at all He had done and saw that it was good. God took pleasure in working. And He wants us to do the same.

The Bible is full of stories that shine the light on the beauty of work. In the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30, for example, we see Jesus tell the story of three servants.

One servant is given one talent, the second servant is given two talents and the third is given five talents. Their master gave them talents, expecting that the talents will be used. He expected them to put their talents to work.

He rewarded the servants who put in the work and increased the value of their talents. But He punished the servant with the one talent who thought it was a great idea to bury his.

Just like those servants, God has given each of us unique abilities, gifts and talents. Work is the medium for converting these gifts, talents and skills into tangible value, not only for ourselves but also for our world.

Think about the teacher who gets to inspire young minds, or the tech whiz who helps us connect with loved ones regardless of distance. Work gives us the opportunity to contribute something special to our world.

Work also helps us grow! Working can help you develop valuable skills. For example, you learn dedication by sticking with a task, consistency by showing up every day and patience by dealing with difficult colleagues.

Now that you have seen the beauty of work, what practical steps can you take to find more pleasure, more joy in your work?

Here are five practical hacks you can start to use today:

1. Start Each Day with Gratitude:

Every morning, express gratitude to God for the work you have. Whether you are commuting to your office or starting your day at home, pause to acknowledge the blessings in your life. Recognize the privilege of pursuing your professional calling.

You can keep a gratitude journal to document the things you’re thankful for. Think about times you felt successful. Did you have helpful colleagues nearby? Did someone offer a great idea when you were stuck? Maybe you just accomplished something you’re proud of! Write it.

2. Create an Inspiring Work Environment:

By simply posting a sticky note with Bible verses and inspiring quotes in your workspace, you can surround yourself with inspiration. A more inspired you is a more joyful you.

You can also cultivate a supportive and uplifting atmosphere among your colleagues. Encourage open communication, collaboration, and appreciation for their contributions. 

3. Have Moments of Fun:

Find ways to infuse activities that fill up your joy tank as you work. Yes, it’s great to stay focused and productive. But it’s also important to take breaks and engage in micro-activities that give you the joy spark.

Here are some ideas for you: schedule virtual coffee breaks with a friend or colleague. Spend five to ten minutes learning something new and unrelated to your work. Have a dance break (if you can😁). Try simple desk activities like arm circles, or leg lifts. Take a short walk round the office if possible.

4. Find Purpose in Daily Tasks:

Intentionally be on the lookout for meaning in your daily tasks. No matter how small they may seem. Recognise the value your work brings to others. But don’t stop there. Keep reminding yourself of this value because forgetting is easy.

Some tasks may feel tedious and unimportant. But they all contribute to the goal of your organisation.

Every action you take has the potential to make a difference. Are you serving customers, sending an email, writing a report, writing code, creating content, or baking a cake?

Whatever it is, focus on the value, the short-term or long-term value of your work. You can find meaning and satisfaction in even the most mundane of tasks.

5. Listen to Uplifting Gospel Music:

As a final tip, you can incorporate uplifting gospel music into your workday. Get your body moving as you are reminded of God’s love and presence in your life through the gift of Jesus-inspired sounds.

You might be surprised at how listening to music can help you face a challenging deadline or navigate a difficult conversation.

Curate a playlist of your favorite gospel songs to add positivity, encouragement, and spiritual nourishment to your workday. To get you started, we curated a special playlist for you. Click HERE to enjoy uplifting music as you work.

Use these hacks to enhance your work experience. It’s up to you to make your work more fulfilling and enjoyable.

Know anyone who needs some help with finding joy in their work? Share this blogpost with them.

Written by Lolade Folorunsho and Oba Lewis

Lolade and Oba volunteer with the Content Team at Sycamore Church.

(Blogposts are creative expressions generously provided for Sycamore Church. The ideas and thoughts do not necessarily represent the position of Sycamore Church)