With all the words we’ve used to describe the new world of work lately, “joy” isn’t exactly one of them. After all, it means great delight, happiness, elation–words that don’t seem to reflect the modern workplace.

Amid extreme financial pressures, job security worries, increased competition, and ongoing changes in our offices and worksites, you might ask “where the heck is the joy around here?”

But I propose that there is great joy to be found in the working world –if only we know where to look.  Here are my four favorite places to discover your joy at work, this new year and beyond.

1. The Joy of Earning. Let’s just say it–getting paid is a joyous thing! While it’s wonderful to say “I’d do this even if they didn’t pay me,” earning money allows us to take better care of our families and ourselves. Why do we shy away from talking about what we earn in the workplace? Take a minute, look at your paycheck (or view your direct deposit online) and tell yourself, “Congrats–you earned it.” There’s no shame in having pride and joy around what you make–no matter how much it is, or how much more you’d like it to be! Read More→