Do you know the feeling? Some days, work feels like an uphill battle, and you’re just counting the minutes until the end of the day. Then there are those other days: you leave with a smile, energy-filled, and excited about tomorrow. But what makes the difference?
Research shows that three key factors determine whether a workday is perfect.
Three Factors That Make a Successful Workday
1. The Right Balance
A successful day is one where we are challenged but not overwhelmed. The workload and tasks should align with our personal resources, providing a sense of relief. A day is also a success if we achieve our work goals.
- Breaks and Recovery: Having enough time for breaks and recovery is equally important. A day filled with back-to-back meetings, leaving no time even for lunch, is stressful and makes us glad it’s over.
- Starting the Day Right: How we start our day also makes a difference. Getting enough sleep and beginning the day mindfully and calmly lays the foundation for productivity. This could involve setting aside time for a healthy breakfast, meditation, or exercise. On the other hand, getting stuck in traffic on the way to work tends to have the opposite effect.
When our resources match the work’s demands, we end the workday feeling satisfied rather than drained.
2. Doing Something for Others
Nothing brings more meaning and satisfaction than helping or supporting others, a feeling of fulfillment that enriches our workday.
Creating Connections: Helping a colleague with a challenging task or having an encouraging conversation as a manager strengthens relationships and leaves us feeling that we’ve had a good day.
3. Experiencing Personal Growth
A workday is particularly successful when we feel we’ve grown and developed somehow, a source of motivation that enhances our workday.
Using Strengths: The extent to which we can use our skills and strengths significantly impacts the quality of our day. When our tasks vary, plus we achieve our goals, we go home satisfied.
Learning Something New: Tasks that push us to learn something new or prove ourselves contribute to personal growth and boost our confidence.
These days, we showcase our strengths and rise to challenges to build our self-esteem. They represent progress, both professionally and personally.
Take Away
- Successful workdays happen when we’re challenged and able to prove ourselves.
- Collaboration with others and opportunities to use our strengths and skills also make a day fulfilling.
- Such days leave us feeling energized, confident, and positive.
Not only do they make the end of the day more enjoyable, but they also increase anticipation for the next day at work.
What about you – what makes a perfect workday for you?
When do you feel happy? Or what completely ruins a day for you?
I’m curious to hear your insights and look forward to exchanging ideas!
