12 Steps to Improved Work Satisfaction

Because you'll be working for the greater portion of your life, it's very important that you enjoy yourself and feel fulfilled by your job. Here are 12 steps you can take to make the most of your time at work.

1. READ Read books that will enhance your skills and abilities. A single trip to the library can keep you busy for a few weeks. The more you know about your position, the better you will be. This will bring you more satisfaction.

2. LEARN ON THE WEB Search for information on the Internet about your job. You can find useful resources for nearly every subject imaginable. When you come across helpful information, print out the materials and file them in a binder or file folder created specifically for work.

3. USE WORK RESOURCES Many companies offer their own resources for education on the premises. Find out what tools your company has, and make use of them. As you become more skilled and talented you will enjoy your time at work. You will also be able to help others improve their skills.

4. WHAT ARE MANAGEMENT'S GOALS? Set up a meeting with your boss. What are his goals? What are the goals of the company? When you know what the company is trying to accomplish, you will be able to align yourself with their direction. Too often an employee only sees what is directly in front of him. This leads to misunderstandings, and conflicting goals. Talk with management to see where they stand.

5. WHAT ARE MANAGEMENT'S EXPECTATIONS? Along with their goals, what are their expectations of you and your position? You may be doing what you thought was expected, only to find that management is displeased with your work. To ensure this doesn't happen to you, find out exactly what they are thinking.

6. SET UP A FUTURE MEETING Feedback is central to workplace motivation. Schedule a future meeting with your boss to go over what you have accomplished, and where improvements can be made.

7. DISCOVER WHERE YOUR TIME GOES Time is a scarce resource. The more efficiently you use your time, the more you will accomplish at work. Keep track of where your time goes for an entire week. After a week of writing down what you do with your time, you will be amazed at where it goes.

8. CLEAN YOUR OFFICE Take time to clean your office or workspace. It is impossible to be motivated when you are surrounded by clutter. Put only what you need at that time on your desk.

9. ORGANIZE YOUR FILES Organize your files alphabetically and by category. This way, you'll be able to find and file your papers in less time.

10. SET WORK GOALSCreate work goals. What levels of success would you like to reach in your position? It doesn't matter what you do for a living, you can set goals. Set goals to do things faster, smarter, and with higher quality.

11. VIEW YOUR LIST IN THE MORNING Look at your list of work goals in the morning before you go to work. This will start you off on the right foot. You will also enter the workplace already knowing what needs to be done.

12. SHARE YOUR GOALS Talk about your goals with your family. Get excited about the changes or improvements you wish to make. This will not only interest them, but will motivate you as well.

-Jason Gracia