OKLAHOMA CITY –
Finding satisfaction at work may be difficult, but focusing on positive relationships and aligning a career with personal values can help employees rediscover motivation — even in jobs they don’t love.
On Monday, News 9 spoke to Oklahoma leadership coach Erin Engelke, who said many Americans are dissatisfied with their jobs, which can affect both motivation and performance.
“It affects performance,” Engelke said. “It affects motivation to get up in the morning and go perform a job that you don’t even love.”
She said one of the biggest challenges employees face is allowing workplace negativity to shape their own outlook.
Avoid the negativity trap
Engelke encouraged people to surround themselves with positive influences rather than getting caught up in constant workplace complaints.
“It’s very, very important to make sure that you surround yourself with positive influences, and it’s easy to gravitate towards the negative,” she said. “The truth of the matter is there’s lots of joy to be found in the everyday.”
She encouraged workers to identify the small parts of their day that bring them satisfaction and intentionally focus on those moments.
“Everybody’s version of joy is different,” Engelke said. “Recognize what you’re feeling on the inside that gives you joy, and make sure that you’re emphasizing those throughout the course of the day.”
Gratitude and values can change your perspective
Engelke said adopting an attitude of gratitude can help shift a person’s mindset, even in a difficult work environment.
“I’m just thankful to have a job and to be here,” she said.
For people who feel trapped in an unfulfilling career, Engelke said it’s important to remember they have more control over their future than they may realize.
“You don’t have to stay where you are,” she said. “You might feel like you’re stuck there … but the truth of the matter is, there’s always a way out.”
Align your career with your values
While changing jobs isn’t always easy, Engelke said understanding personal values can help people find a better long-term fit.
She recommended identifying three to five core values and seeking positions that align with them.
“A powerful value would be family,” Engelke said. “If you’re working in a job that is requiring way too much of you … but family is a top value for you, then you probably need to find a role, a position that allows you more time and energy with your family.”
Engelke also encouraged workers to celebrate even small victories throughout the day, saying those moments can build motivation and improve overall job satisfaction.