BE HAPPY AT WORK

If you are employed, chances are you often spend more time at office than home. And so, it's very important that you are happy and relaxed when at work. But that's easier said than done. A tyrant boss, backstabbing colleagues, poor pay packages, office politics, unequal distribution of work, favouritism — there are countless reasons to put one off work. Job stress can take a huge toll on your mental and physical health. Changing jobs constantly is not a solution, especially in today's economic scenario. So, here's how to make the most of what you have.  EAT OUT  Forget home-cooked food and that boring canteen fare. It's a great idea to step out for lunch with your colleagues. You will help you bond with them. If you hate going out, order some take-away. And if you are the kind who always eats out, get a home-cooked dish sometimes. Good food will uplift your mood.  BE OPTIMISTIC      Whatever the nature and number of problems you face at work, they're not going to disappear at the snap of your fingers. You need to be optimistic that the situation will improve slowly and steadily. Do not fall prey to negative thinking. If you find it tough to be optimistic, fake it. With time, your fake positivity will turn real. All you need is a little practice.  CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE  Even if you hate your job, make the most of it. Analyse how you can improve yourself —make fewer mistakes, increase your efficiency, etc. Whenever you leave a job, you should know that it has enhanced your skills, even if in a minor way.  BE FRIENDLY WITH  COLLEAGUES  A friendly atmosphere makes a huge difference. If you're aloof, chances are you will feel left out at some point of time. We're not asking you to go shopping with them and share the details of your personal life, but be cordial.  BE GRATEFUL      Typing furiously on the keyboard, slamming the phone, and pushing the drawers of the cabinet forcefully may help you vent anger, but think about how lucky you are. In the current market scenario, there are many unemployed people who would love to be in your shoes.  BE ASSERTIVE      Nobody likes to be bullied and harassed at work. If your detractors are under the impression that you can't speak up for yourself, it encourages them to trouble you even more. So, stand up for yourself.  TAKE A CHILL PILL      Slogging for 12 to 16 hours a day will leave anyone grumpy, stressed out and unable to concentrate. So, small 15-minute breaks are a must in between. Take a nap, read jokes or play games online, listen to music or chat with a friend. If napping and playing games online are prohibited, listen to some good music to pep up your mood.  ASK FOR FEEDBACK      It's important to ask for a feedback from your boss. Good communication will give you a clear idea of what's expected of you.      Compiled by Lisa Antao