Finding Joy In Work

Did you know that if you work a typical 9-5 job, you’ll spend roughly 90,000 hours at work over your lifetime? That’s about a third of your life! With so much time dedicated to work, it’s important to find ways to enjoy it.

But even a dream job has its tough days, so how do we find happiness both on the good days and the challenging ones? Let’s explore six tips to find more joy and meaning in your work.

6 Tips for Finding Joy in Your Work

Invest in Relationships

When struggling to find joy at work, it’s easy to isolate yourself from others. But God didn’t design us to live alone—He created us to build meaningful connections, even at work (John 15:13).

If you feel disconnected from your coworkers, try making small adjustments to reconnect. Say hello to someone in the hallway, lend a helping hand, or choose to ask a question in person instead of sending an email.

If you work with other believers, those relationships may form more naturally. But even if you don’t, the workplace is a fantastic opportunity to spark uplifting conversations and maybe even share the gospel.

Remember, our kingdom work doesn’t stop when we clock in. We’re called to love others and represent Jesus everywhere we go!

Nurture a Positive Mindset

Sometimes, switching our mindset can make a big difference in our attitude towards work. When the “Sunday scaries” roll around, try focusing on the positive aspects of your job. Stop to thank God for the people you work with, the blessing of a steady income, or the feeling of a job well done. God brings order and beauty out of whatever work we do, and that’s always a reason to rejoice (Colossians 3:23–24).

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Keep Christ First

We’re asked the question “What do you do?” all the time, but our jobs don’t define who we are. Even the “perfect” job can’t satisfy us the way Jesus does. If you’re feeling unfulfilled at work, remember that your worth comes from Christ alone. Focus on finding your happiness in your relationship with Him first, and no matter where you work, you’ll experience true and lasting joy (Philippians 3:8-9).

Fill Your Day with Truth

Feeding our minds and hearts with Truth throughout the day is especially important if you’re dealing with a challenging work environment. Try taking God’s Word with you to work. Jot down some Bible verses on post-it notes for your desk, set reminders on your phone to pause and pray, or play worship music in your office. The more we fill our day with Truth, the less room there is for negativity (Philippians 4:8).

Set Goals

Setting realistic goals for your job is a great way to stay motivated and invested in your work. Maybe you’re thinking about taking an online course to build a specific skill, tackling a new project, or strengthening your relationships with coworkers. Whatever your goals, don’t forget to celebrate your wins along the way!

Embrace Your Passions and Strengths

God has given each of us unique gifts to help further His kingdom, and the workplace is a great place to use them! What do people often say you’re good at? What activities make you feel energized and excited? Are there tasks that just seem to come naturally to you? Share your passions and strengths with your supervisor to make sure you’re putting your gifts to the best use.

How to Find a Job You Actually Like

If things don’t feel right at work, it might be time for a change. But how do you find a job you will like? Start by asking God where He may be leading you—after all, your career is ultimately in His hands.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your closest loved ones for advice. Their insights can help you discover a career that aligns with your strengths. Career counselors can also be valuable resources for finding the right job fit.

To prepare for your passion career, now may be the time to grow your skills through online courses or certifications. This not only boosts your resume but can also help you identify fields that truly excite you.

Finally, think about your ideal work environment. What do you wish you had that you currently don’t? What changes would bring you closer to God in your work life?

As you pray and seek wise counsel, keep in mind that while we make our plans, it’s the Lord who establishes our steps. His timing is perfect, and He has your best interests in mind.

We hope that by prioritizing your joy in Christ and practicing some of these tips, you’ll discover more happiness in your work life. Which tip will you try first?