Have you ever felt like you couldn’t give another ounce of effort even if your life depended on it? Does it seem like the demands in your current job are so overwhelming that you are on the verge of a crackup? Do the words overworked and underappreciated describe exactly how you are feeling? Maybe you think no one cares what you’ve done, only what’s not done?! Here’s the good news, you are not alone!
Everyone reaches a point where their effectiveness diminishes. The key is not increasing your ability to work more hours while increasing your productivity, though there are temporary situations where long hours are required. The key is understanding how you work best. Additionally, to avoid feeling under-appreciated, you have to understand what motivates you.
I’m going to help you think about some ways that you can address being an overworked, under-appreciated cog in the wheel!
Three actions you can take right now:
* Know your limits
* Order you day
* Identify your language of affirmation and tell your leader
Ultimately it’s up to you to view your work as meaningful. Each one of us serves a customer each and every day. Are you doing your best for them? Can you go home at the end of the day and look at yourself in the mirror and honestly say “I did the best I could to serve my customer” – if so, know that you are achieving meaning even if no one every tells you so. Don’t forget this – YOU decide if you are just another brick in the wall. You can make today the best day of your life by deciding it’s going to be.
Now, go and lead like someone you would want to follow!
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