I recently read a provocatively-titled article in the New York Times’ Sunday Review called "Why You Hate Work." Though the title is rather strong, the findings were pretty interesting. Not one to pass up commentary on work culture (and how to make it better), I read the piece, written by Tony Schwartz of the Energy Project, whose blog is full of great work-related research, and Christine Porath from Georgetown University, based on a study they conducted. They found that there are four major factors that influence how we feel about our jobs.

Renewal was the first. Taking breaks is essential to staying healthy and happy at work. Rather than ‘powering through’ a long string of nonstop tasks, taking breaks at regular intervals (in the study, it was every 90 minutes) will actually boost your productivity and help you focus. Additionally, engagement levels and work satisfaction dramatically decreased for those who consistently put in more than 40 hours per week. Employees who felt encouraged to take breaks were more likely to stay with a company and it increased their sense of health and well-being. Maybe the next time you're feeling depleted, try giving yourself a break: take a quick walk, do some stretches in your office, or visit the water cooler. Additionally, you could ask about Reduced Seasonal Hours, which are available this summer (in week-long blocks) from May 4, 2014 through August 23, 2014, or as temporarily reduced daily hours. Fill out a FlexWork Request Form to apply for this option.

Value was the second. Being valued by one’s supervisor builds trust and a feeling of security in one’s position. Employees with supportive supervisors are more engaged and are likelier to stay in a position. People who feel micromanaged or ‘replaceable’ are less likely to do quality work. As a supervisor, think about how you show your colleagues that you trust them to do their work. As a co-worker, how do you show support? Maybe give a Sparcet and share an accomplishment or bit of praise. 

Focus was the third. According to the study, only 20% of respondents said they were able to focus on one task at a time, but those who could reported 50% more engagement with tasks and co-workers. This factor also plays a part in prioritizing tasks. Those who reported an ability to prioritize were more able to focus and feel accomplished, as opposed to those who felt mired in multiple tasks of equal priority. If you use the Waggle ticket system, you may be able to keep track of progress and communications all in one place. Alternately, web-based productivity tools like Asana can help to work out timelines for tasks. 

Purpose was the fourth. Employees who have a sense of meaning in their work are more than three times more likely to stay with their companies. Finding meaning in your work is essential to taking it seriously and giving it your full attention. Feeling a sense of purpose enhances the satisfaction of doing the work, and helps you stay engaged. What satisfies you in your work? What inspires you? 

If you want to read the full article, click here.