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Showing posts with label Live Happy (In The Workplace). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Live Happy (In The Workplace). Show all posts

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #206 Find a Workplace Ally

Today is Day #206 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to find one person to be your workplace ally or confidante.

The book says,

If there is somone in the company or on your job site that you can trust and shares your level of integrity and ethics, aligning with him or her could benefit your professional goals, especially if that person is a supervisor or further aling the career ladder than you are.

Having someone as a workplace ally means you don't have to feel alone as you navigate through office politics, solve problems, or deal with difficult coworkers.

A workplace ally can serve as your sounding board for new ideas, cheer you on when you day is filled with special challenges, and give you a pep talk to lift your heart and hopes when you need it. Cherish him and nurture that friendship.

I just started at my job. I wish when we were given new tasks that they just didn't assume you know everything about the task given. Like a foobar yesterday. Don't let someone pick an entire sheet and then tell them, oh you should have separated all of that by barcodes.

Just For Today: We all need a workplace ally and friend.

From the book: Live Happy

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #205 Resolve Workplace Ethics

Today is Day #205 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, resolve to improve workplace ethics.

The book says,

If your company follows a policy of putting profits ahead of ethical practices, possibly even at the expense of exploiting workers or customers, why not seek a review of current company policies with your boss or supervisor.

Such a companywide review of ethical practices and standards of behavior would likely permit discussion of questionable policies. You might be able (even encouraged) to challenge practices that you think are unfair, exploitive, or unethical.


For each questionable practice or policy, find and offer and ethical alternative. When acceptable ethical practices and moral conduct are clearly stated and followed, workplace morale can often improve as well.


Just For Today: I will live and work happy.

From the book:  Live Happy

Monday, March 6, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #204 Ask For a Promotion

Today is Day #204 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, pick a date and then ask for a promotion.

The book says,

You know why you should be promoted, but the timing for seeking the promotion could possibly impact the outcome.

Is there a major project that needs to be pushed through first? Does someone have to leave before you can move up and into his or her position?

Decided when you think the time would best serve you, your boss, and your company for you to seek a promotion. Circle a date on your desk calendar and look at it every day. Know that date is coming and you need to prepare. Get ready.

Just For Today: I am content in my position at work. I feel blessed to have my job.

From the book: Live Happy

Sunday, March 5, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #203 List Reasons You Should Be Promoted

Today is Day #203 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says come up with three reasons why you should be promoted.

The book says,

You know you are good. But can you articulate succinctly and persuasively why you should be promoted?


If not, try writing down three good reasons why you deserve a promotion. After you have requested a private meeting with your boss, let her know you understand she's a busy person. Instead of making small talk, get directly to the point.


Let her know that you enjoy working for the company. Focus on the quality and quantity of your work. Tell your boss the three reasons why you should be promoted to a new job. Know what the new job will entail and be able to share details of what qualifies you to perform the tasks expected in the new job. Explain you'll happily take new training and are eager to accept new responsibilities.


I once climbed the ladder of a job in retail. I went from sales associate to assistant manager and for a short time, manager. Let me tell you, the grass isn't greener at the top when you factor in all the many responsibilities that you now have. I did it to better myself.

Due to circumstances relating to heroin and drugs in and around our store and then learning that our son had a problem the stress burned me out.

Just For Today: I am happy in the position I have at work.

From the book: Live Happy

Saturday, March 4, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #202 Setting Reminders

Today is Day #202 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we need to set computer reminders on our work computer.

The book says,

Can't remember co-workers birthdays, the date of your company office party, the timing of the arrival of a team from out-of-state, or when you last ran a full security scan on your office computer?

Many people don't take full advantage of the built-in features of their computers, or those that their company provides. Take advantage of sophisticated programming already in your computer or software to manage appointments and contacts using the personal information manager (PIM feature). Most computers offer a powerful and easy-to-use filing system so that you can even work in a paperless environment.


If you seek a higher profile in your workplace, there's an easy way to accomplish that.  When you know where things are all the time or how to retrieve them in a mouse click or two, you might just get bragging rights to being the new "go-to person" for the entire office.


Just For Today: I keep my personal reminders in a spiral notebook.

We only have about four days left of the challenges, Live Happy: Promoting Happiness in the Workplace before moving on to the next section. What do you think so far? Have you tried any of the challenges in this section?

From the book: Live Happy

Friday, March 3, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #201 Create A Happy Work Balance

Today is Day #201 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, try doing one new thing each week to create a happier work life.

The book says,

If you have to play mind games to psyche yourself up to go to work, it might be time to think about changing jobs. Conversely, if you like your work/job but wished you could enjoy it more, think of one new activity or ritual that you could do each week to create a more harmonious, happier, and productive work life.

For example, maybe you are the type to hit the ground running every morning. Instead of starting to work on your many projects the minute you arrive at work consider starting your day differently. Listen to some music. Spend a few minutes of deep breathing while you concentrate on feelings of being happy, relaxed but focused, prepared, and centered. Shaking up your routine to feel happier can be a good thing.


It used to be working was my disconnect. I could concentrate on something else for a few hours a day. Now, I've noticed that sometimes little things creep into my mind.

Just For Today: I love my job. I need to shake up my routine!

From the book: Live Happy


Thursday, March 2, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #200 Ask To Work on a Special Project

Today is Day #200 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to ask your boss for a special assignment or task.

The book says,

If you hope to land a special project, consider asking your boss to assign it to you. Be clear in your communication. Tell your boss you believe you are precisely the right person for that job. Go beyond your qualifications and also mention why you would feel more passionate about it than other equally qualified individuals.

If your boss passes over you and gives that special assignment that you covet to someone else, be a good sport. Congratulate the other person and offer your help in the event he or she might need or welcome it. That way, you both can enjoy the project.

Just For Today: No matter what I am a good sport about everything. Life is too short!

From the book: Live Happy


Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #199 Office Birthday

Today is Day #199 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, make note of your co-workers birthdays.

The book says,

Purchase a pocket-book sized calendar and keep track of coworkers birthdays. It seems a lot of people when others remember their birthdays. You don't have to have an elaborate celebration, a card that everyone signs can be just as meaningful.

The point isn't really that you got them a card or a cake but rather that you and your coworkers took the time to keep track and then to pay homage. Spreading around a little celebratory happiness on birthdays does wonders for office morale. Try it and see for yourself.

My department at work recognizes birthdays. I believe it keeps morale up.

Just For Today: Making a persons day is a piece of cake!

From the Book: Live Happy



Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #198 A Visionary

Today is Day #198  of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, volunteer to set up the company library.

The book says,

If you can't find the most recent due dilligence binder, the latest trade industry magazine with a profile of your boss, or timely reference books that you need to complete a project, consider volunteerting to establish a library for your business.

Not only will it benefit others in your company, but it could be a career booster for you, especially if you not only brainstormed the idea but also got it approved and have sacrificed some personal time to spearhead the project.

Your initiative and foresight most likely will set you apart as a visionary with a can-do attitude, the type of individual that many companies like to recruit and retain.

Just For Today: Although this does not apply to my job or workplace I do go to work with a can-do attitude.

From the Book: Live Happy

Monday, February 27, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #197 Take Relaxation Breaks

Today is Day #197 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to have moments of relaxation during the workday.

The book says,

How do you feel at the end of a typical workday? If you often feel drained, totally stressed out, and in a bad mood, try to find a few moments throughout the day to de-stress and relax.

Some people find that a quick nap or a half-hour power nap over lunch can push away fatigue and re-energize them. Others swear that a brisk walk when they can practice mindfulness and deep breathing is equally beneficial for banishing stress and helping them refocus.

Try getting in a little workout going up and down some stairs. Step outside for fresh air and sunlight. Sit somewhere for five minutes and close your eyes.

Just breathe in and out, mindful of the breaths. Feel relaxed.

Each morning before starting work we do stretching exercises to get the muscles ready for the day. I know people who power nap on their breaks. I like to go outside for my breaks, even when it's cold to get fresh air. When possible on my days off I take a few minutes of "me" time. I meditate daily.

Just For Today: I will take moments to de-stress during the work day even if it is just stepping outside for some air.

10 Relaxation Techniques to Help De-Stress

I am a huge fan of and use homeopathic and all natural means on most days because I know the catch to traditional meds. Oh No! Not Me!

I use Bach's Flowers Rescue Remedy and Hyland's Nerve Tonic. I am not in any way telling you that these are what you should use. I am saying this is what I use because both work for me in my situation.

What do you do to de-stress before, during or after your workday?

pic found @ quotesgram
From the book: Live Happy

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #196 Delegating Tasks

Today is Day #196 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to think of three tasks someone else could do and delegate them.

The book says,

When a job or project is too big for one brain and one set of hands, it's a good idea to delegate. If you're not a manager and this isn't your job, speak to your manager about it.

The dictionary says that the word "delegate" means to entrust or hand over to another.  When your workload is lighter, you can focus more intently on every aspect of your job and most likely do it better than when you were overloaded.


Think of three tasks that you could easily hand off to someone else equally qualified to do them, and let him go to work. Allowing that person to honor you by doing the job to the best of his ability means that you won't micromanage him. Trust him and give him time to do his best work. Then, everyone will benefit.


I work in a warehouse. Today's challenge wouldn't necessarily be something I could apply at my job, but others may be able to depending on the type of work that you do. I do ask for help if a task becomes too overwhelming for just one person to handle, but I am just not in any position to delegate the workload.

Just For Today: If I feel overwhelmed on a task given to me, I do ask for help.

From the book: Live Happy

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #195 Itemize Job Tasks You Love Doing

Today is Day #195 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today tells us to itemize for our boss and managers the tasks we love doing.

The book says,

Do you love pulling together data for your company's due diligence binders, working on payroll and reconciling the bank statements, writing press releases, researching, or working on the company website?

Let your boss know what tasks you especially like. It's possible that just by letting your preferences be known that you will get more or that kind of work. And if you really like doing those tasks, you are probably happier and enthusiastic while at work.

Those feelings can spread around the office. Just imagine if everyone is doing what they most like to do. Start an "I love my job" campaign. Get everyone on board.

For all of us at our workplaces there are job tasks assigned that some of love and those that we don't particularly like doing. None of my departments job tasks involve those in the challenge, but I know what the challenge is asking. Put the jobs we love doing in order.

For the past month they have been rotating us around so that none of us get stuck doing the same task each and everyday. I think it's working out like that.

Just For Today: I will make a list of the job tasks in order and at the next one on one meeting will present them to my manager.

From the Book: Live Happy

Friday, February 24, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #194 Teamwork

Today is Day #194 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, think of tasks someone can do and ask them to help.

The book says,

A load is lighter when several people help carry it. Teamwork may seem incompatible with competition, but when competition is friendly it can spur everyone on toward a mutual goal.
Helen Keller once noted that we can do little alone but together we can accomplish much..

The key is to find ways to spur everyone to compete to the fullest, doing their best, and always insisting that winners and losers stick to the rules of good sportsmanship. Celebrate the effort of each individual worker attempting to exceed his best level of accomplishment rather than feeling joyful because of the outcome (someone wins or loses).

At my job they do little things to keep morale up. Our department is a great team and we help each other.

Just For Today: I will do my part to help my coworkers.

From the book: Live Happy

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #193 Organize and De-Clutter

Today is Day #193 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to clean your desk top at the end of each day.

The book says,

Time management experts say that a clean desk is important for several reasons. You work more efficiently when you know where documents and tools are at all times rather than having to search through piles of disorganized material on your desktop.

A clean desk signals to others that most likely you are an organized person with efficient and effective work habits, thus inspiring confidence. Don't wait to clean that desk off. Get yourself some garbage bags, several filing boxes, manila and hanging folders, labels, and an organizer for your to-do lists, addresses, and other data, and a calendar.

Join the ranks of happily organized workers.

I don't have a desk job at work. I can see the importance of the information given in todays challenge. I don't claim to have OCD behaviors but I know personally that even a little clutter can cause some disorganization. When we are disorganized it is hard to find something. Especially a little piece of paper I needed for work a few days ago. The feelings I got knowing I had put it down and it was shuffled around.

Just For Today: I am starting to declutter my mind and my home.

From the Book: Live Happy

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #192 Write a Thank You Card

Today is Day #192 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, write a thank you note to someone on your team

The book says,

A member of your team helped you meet a deadline, stood in for you in a meeting, or even took on a part of your workload, so take the time to write her a thank-you note.

Keep the tone professional and adhere to good writing standards, avoiding slang and words whose meaning might be misconstrued.

Don't send your thank-you note by email. Although e-mails are appropriate for various types of office communication, a hand-written thank-you note is a personal expression of appreciation. By contrast, consider how a hastily written message of thanks, sent by e-mail, might be received.

When you let workers know that you view them and their contributions as important to the team's success and take the time to write a thoughtful note, most likely you'll be rewarded with loyalty and assistance the next time you need it.

I always thank those who have helped me in big ways but I have never given them a little note of thanks.

Just For Today: I will let those who help me in big ways know with a thank you.

From the Book: Live Happy

Monday, February 20, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #191 Remember to Praise a Job Well Done

Today is Day #191  of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we should single out one coworker each week and praise that person.

The book says,

When you see a coworker's extrodinary effort to get a project completed or to do a particular task well, offer some heartfelt praise. A word or two of encouragement can mean a lot to that person. Plus, people tend to be more productive when they know that their efforts are appreciated.

If you are a manager or leader and don't feel you are getting the best effort from your workers, think about what you can do to raise the morale and set the tone for a friendlier, supportive work environment. Make it a priority to appropriately praise and reward dedication and effort on the job.

Although I am not a manager or a supervisor I have worked in those positions in the past. I know how important it is for people to know that they are doing a good job. In my department at work there are several who stepped out into leadership position this past busy season.

All of them did a great job! They were helpful and supportive even on days when they were stressed.

Just For Today: I will remember to say thank you to coworkers today.
I've learned that people may forget what you said,
people may forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel.
- Maya Angelou

From the book: Live Happy

Sunday, February 19, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #190 No Fibs Allowed

Today is Day #190  of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, speak the truth for a whole day.

The book says,

Can you go through an entire day without telling the truth and only the truth? Telling the truth, like thinking positive thoughts, is a skill that requires lots of practice.

Many people tell little white lies, half-truths, or useful falsehoods to evade blame, deceive, deny reality, or to feel better about themselves. A little white lie, in some instances, might be motivated by a desire to prevent someone from being hurt.

For example, you know that a co-worker is about to be fired. When she asks you if you've heard anything about her possible termination, you tell her no.

It takes more effort to think about how to answer her truthfully and still not hurt her feelings than to just lie. But if you live and work from a place of truth, others will trust your word and appreciate the honesty.

In the long term, truth may be the most powerful tool you have in your career toolbox.

Just For Today: No Fibs Allowed.

From the book: Live Happy

Saturday, February 18, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #189 Show Up on Time

Today is Day #189  of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, show up on time and prepared for meetings.

The book says,

Many working professionals feel that although meetings can be big time wasters, they are often necessary for the smooth functioning of their departments, businesses, or corporations.

Leaders can use meetings to gather information and input from others, address a hot topic of concern to all gathered, or celebrate a milestone or a worker's accomplishments. A leader can also use a meeting to challenge, motivate, and inspire others.

Whether you are the leader or an individual attending the meeting, take the time to prepare (if you are expected to provide input, ideas, or data) and always show up on time. Being on time and prepared demonstrates a high level of integrity and commitment. Be proud of yourself for making the effort.

This doesn't just pertain to meetings. This can also mean showing up on time and ready to go to work. Showing your managers, supervisors and boss a little integrity means a lot.

Just For Today: I will make the effort to be on time.

From the Book:  Live Happy

Friday, February 17, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #188 A Tip For a Cranky Co-Worker

Today is Day #188 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to greet a cranky coworker with a plate of cookies.

The book says,

Bake some cookies in the office microwave or bring them from home. If someone in your office often scowls, chronically complains, or flies into a hissy fit with little or no provocation, offer him/her a plate of warm chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies.

Even if they are refused, you can be assured that you at least tried to bring a little pleasure into that person's life. The gesture may work or it may not.

Some people are just so used to being unhappy and feeling like the whole world is against them that they are outside their comfort zone when someone does something unexpected and nice for them.
The truth is that they are more likely than not hungry for friendship and attention.

We all have a bad day here and there but I know there are some who have more days than happy ones and show up for work moody every day. I had a boss like that once. What a great idea that I never thought of, just take them a plate of cookies.

Just For Today: Put a smile on someone's face with a plate of cookies!

pic found @ cookie madness
From the book: Live Happy

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Challenge Myself: Day #187 Making a Mistake

Today is Day #187 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we need to admit to our superiors when we have made a mistake.

The book says,

It is often difficult to admit to your superiors that you made a mistake. However, doing so demonstrates your sense of responsibility and willingness to shoulder the blame.

Taking responsibility for a screw up by you or your team shows your managers and boss that you are a person with values and moral principles.

Although a mistake has been made, you'll be better off admitting it and moving forward than deceiving, lying, or covering up the error, all of which can have disastrous consequences for you later where the truth is finally found out.

Now, this can be a big oops or a little oops. What if that oops is going to get you written up? A few months ago I made a mistake on my job when I counted something to zero. It reflected a zero balance on our inventory.

When it was brought to my attention I immediately apologized. It was my mistake. I owned it. I was sorry for it. I was sorry that another had to go recount that entire location to correct my mistake. I was happy that it was used as a training tool for me. I will make sure in the future that I pay better attention.

Just For Today: I will admit when I made a mistake, even when the only words I can offer is I am sorry.

pic found @ bethkimmerle
From the book: Live Happy