Tips to make your 9 to 5 more enjoyable

As a new to corporate life girlie, I have quickly acquired a few tricks of the trade to help myself on those days when you feel so exhausted being in-office. I feel very lucky to have a hybrid schedule, especially as my company is multinational. A 9 to 5 can feel like so much of your time and if you’re not careful, you can easily get in a rut or become discouraged. I do believe there is much to our present work landscape that should be changed, but I also believe in changing what you can!

Here are some things to make your 9 to 5 more enjoyable, particularly those early office days!

Bring a work-only snack you love

This is a tiny thing but it’s the tiny things that make the difference. I have tea that I only drink at work. As soon as it hits 10:30, I take a break and let my tea steep for a few minutes. It’s a great way to move out of my office desk while giving my eyes a break from the screen, and it’s a delightful treat to have.

Related Post: my current obsessions

Have a post-work activity you look forward to

I have been obsessed with watching Jeopardy. After getting home from work, I’ll quickly hop in the shower, change into some jammies, and grab my knitting to do while watching. Jeopardy truly is fun while teaching you very obscure things. I for one need a greater grasp on geography. But this can be anything! Painting, calling a friend, going on a walk, reading, taking a dance class – just do something that separates your work from your life.

Get outside during lunch

When the weather is good, I go for a walk at lunch. I don’t go with headphones. I just get out of the building and start pounding pavement. It’s better for my mind and my body if I move and it makes it feel like time is actually passing. I’m getting some fresh air. I’d honestly take more walks if it was a thing I saw my colleagues doing. We were made for fresh air and sunshine. Go get some!

On my way to work, I saw a farmer’s market and got a sweet treat. A few weeks ago, I tried a new route around my work neighborhood and found a park. Go explore!

Related Post: advice from the beautiful anonymous podcast

Listen to fun podcasts while doing repetitive work tasks

I have a report that I do weekly. It takes several hours each week to prepare to send it out. While I work on it, I like to put on my airpods and listen to podcasts. A podcast can be so motivating for putting your head down and grinding. I’ve been enjoying quite a few–

Beautiful Anonymous: anonymous caller and comedian Chris Gethard talk about anything for an hour

That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs: faith filled podcast (love the casual episodes with Eddie Kaufholz – it’s just friends chatting!)

Heaven Meets Earth: Holy Spirit led stories and breathing new life into faith — a new favorite

Reunion Hawaii: weekly sermons

Prepare in advance

I am fully a type A- because while I can be so nonchalant, I truly know the power of preparation. Every Sunday, I meal prep. I always get my clothes ready the night before. The more you plan in advance, the less mental energy you have to spend making decisions and ultimately, the more time you have back. To catch up on sleep and to enjoy your free time.

Passively job hunt

This is an unorthodox tip, but I think it’s one that many people who have been in their job for a while need to hear. As a relatively new grad and early in my career, I’ve done a decent amount of job hunting. I’ve honestly had better luck this go-around compared to 2022, but it’s really brutal out there. If you don’t believe me, get on reddit /jobs. They will be honest about the process. Seeing what’s out there might help you appreciate what you have.

If you’re like me and new to the corporate world, I hope these tips will help you enjoy your day-to-day more!

Signing off,

Gigi