HIGHFIELD HIGH 1 SCHOOL

TECHNICAL AREAS DEPARTMENT (TAD)

STAFF DEVELOPMENT – 2019.
5 Tips for a Happier Work Day

Over the course of our teaching career, about one-third of our waking hours are spent at
work. This is a sizeable number and one that is much more easily digested if the hours are
spent doing something that makes us happy. Being happy at work might not always seem
easy, but it is very possible. Here are five ways to be happier at work.

1. Set three small daily goals: - Sometimes it can be hard to feel like you're making
progress on our teaching amidst the constant interruptions of emails, phone calls, meetings,
sporting activities, and workshops.

By jotting down small things that you would like to accomplish each day - and then crossing
them off the list as you do them - you can remind yourself of the great progress you actually
are making.

One of the best ways to set and track your daily work is with a checklist. If you've never used
one, give it a try. It's simple, yet effective.

Task Complete Incomplete

Marking register
Marking 1A1, 3A4 books
Learners to write a test
Remedial work for……

2. Avoid negativity in the workplace: - No matter how happy you are, negativity, gossip,
and complaining co-workers can be a drain on your energy. Instead, try to make friends with
co-workers who are positive, collegial, and can provide a good network of support and
resources.

Better yet... be that positive, supportive person - bring in contribution to the relationship,
don’t be only the one to benefit all the time. Chances are, it will also advance your career.

3. Make your workspace your own: - Since you spend so much time at your workspace, it
will go a long way if you make it comfortable, relaxed, and reflective of you. Keep it simple,
though. Over-cluttering your workspace can lead to distraction.

4. Take ownership over your professional development: - Professional development will

help you feel connected to your career and grow as a professional. Listen to advice from your
boss, but be the leader of your own path. Focus on where you want to be, rather than where
you are now. Take steps each day that advance you toward your goal.

@KUWODZA
©2019
5. Be future oriented: A few bad days won't seem so grim if you have solid long-term goals,
and you can see how your present work fits into them. Be engaged in the present, but don't
lose sight of the big picture. The best way to achieve goals is to have one longer-term goal
(one to three years out). Lay out the steps you need to achieve your goals.

Establish a timeline for each step.

Focus on one step at a time. Make sure your daily task list includes something tangible that
moves you toward the next step in your goal process.

@KUWODZA
©2019