By Julia Mitchell
Can we also tidy up our work lives?
With her bestseller, The Magic of Tidying Up, Marie Kondo has led millions of Americans to take a hard look at their possessions and ask themselves the deceivingly simple question, “Does this bring me joy?” If the answer is yes, the item is beautifully folded and carefully placed on a shelf. If the answer is no, the item is thanked for its service and sent to Goodwill or the trash.
While this minimalist approach to home organization may not suit everyone, it does raise an interesting question: Can we also tidy up our work lives? And what happens if we realize our current job does not bring us joy?
In that case, it can be worthwhile to look for ways to manage the workplace experience, drawing on lessons learned from those who are masters at building relationships and interpersonal skills.
Avoid Toxic Work Relationships.
We’ve all been there at some point. The co-worker who loves to gossip, complain about others, or talk behind the boss’s back can act like a magnet, bringing others into his or her toxic sphere. Instead of getting drawn into the drama that this person brings to the work environment, surround yourself with like-minded co-workers to develop your interpersonal skills. Focus on the task at hand, avoid the water cooler or break room, and take a walk at lunch. Healthy detachment may not only help you get through your day, but might make you stand out from the crowd, perhaps letting others realize there is another way to communicate with each other.
Build Relationships.
Those who have mastered building relationships know how to use their interpersonal skills by seeking out and connecting with those who can help them. Research the biographies of potential mentors in your company and find common interests or experiences. When you see that person in the hall or elevator, make a point to mention it. A shared interest in hiking, dog training, or sports can be the start of a professional relationship. Invite that person for coffee and ask for mentoring support. Let him or her know of your goals and ask for help in reaching them.
Use Your Personal Time to Develop New Skills.
Your commute, lunch hour, and weekends can all be opportunities to get inspired and learn. Begin with that blank sheet of paper. If it were possible, what type of work would you prefer? Are there other positions at your current company that might better suit you? Could growing your interpersonal skills and relationships help? How can you prepare yourself and what do you need to learn to get from here to there?
Just as in tidying your home, the first step in tidying your work life is take a good look at your job and ask, “Does this bring me joy?”
Just as in tidying your home, the first step in tidying your work life is take a good look at your job and ask, “Does this bring me joy?” Then, use the example of those who excel at building relationships and interpersonal skills to make the hard choices that may help you develop a more satisfying professional life.
