1 - Educational challenges - What was once massaged your brain into stimulation can become a nuisance after repeated experiences. This is actually one of the leading causes in folks switching jobs/careers. Keep a fresh supply of mental chewing gum by digging into War and Peace, attempting a new language or revisiting high school mathematics.

How this worked for me - Recently, I’ve been trying my gift of gab in the form of Vietnamese. Meeting new people and connecting via this beautiful language has been rewarding beyond description.

2 - Re-arrange your schedule - Obviously, this can be filed under the “easier said than done” category. Trust me on this one though, and take it one step at a time before going as far as to ask for the night shift, hehe. For instance, instead of working out at the gym on M/W/F, give T/Th/Su a go. In this case, by going from one set of times to another, you’ll encounter new people which can lead to increased networking.

How this worked for me - I had honed a 200 average at the bowling alley every Thursday night for months. Now my Lebowski-ness occurs on Tuesdays and my group of pin pals has increased for the better. Oddly enough, the oil conditions are better and my average has risen.

3 - Take the scenic route - Literally, this would mean an alternative route home, and although that qualifies as a refreshing stimulant, I’m talking on a grander scale. Make it a goal to take at least one trip per month to a new town, city, or state on your days off. You can go the way of the lone ranger and cruise solo, but sharing with friends/family enriches the experience.

How this worked for me - Days out and about on the weekends has doubled as a chance to focus on my photography hobby. Bonus!

4 - Plan a get-together with friends - Often times professionals will focus on their career and leave behind the communication with friends and family. Make it a point to grab dinner or have a house party with close friends and/or relatives on fairly frequent basis.

How this worked for me - Some of the best I friends I have were made from specifically seeking time to have fun while not at work. True story.

5 - Keep a 7-day diary - Writing has been proven time and time again to be thoroughly therapeutic. Thoughts can build up like a messy desk in the subconscious of our minds and eventually lead to a wild stress-induced mood swing. Sounds familiar? Yeah, I’ve been there too. Write about anything or everything to clear off that mental deskspace at least once a week. Without mental health and clarity, your happiness is genuinely impaired.

How this worked for me - Writing has provided me an outlet for pent-up feelings and thoughts that would have gone unattended. By casually recognizing what’s on my mind, I’ve been able to do a ton of self-improvement over the past several years. Writing… Modern-Worker approved!

Now, I’m fully aware these adjustments to life aren’t exactly easy or convenient to make, but I promise you’ll be glad you mixed things up. New environments, people and activities will induce a positive, confident spirit!

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