Bored at Work? Read on ...

WE HAVE all felt a sense of dullness and boredom at work at some stage in our careers. 

It’s a common aspect of both work and life and usually merely a reflection that we have lost our passion and drive, replaced by an acceptance that our working week is simply a long journey through to the weekend.

Not that boredom is a bad thing. Without it, we can miss out on the more fulfilling parts of our lives because we need a little boredom as a warning signal that we have become unproductive, unfulfilled or stagnant.

Too much boredom at work, however, can be damaging, not simply for you but for your co-workers and your employer. It is hardly a leap to conclude that more engaged employees are more fulfilled and productive.

Some workers become bored because they feel their strengths are not being utilised. Others feel they are being left out of the loop by being excluded from important decisions, and still others feel trapped because they are not afforded opportunities to learn, grow and develop.   

Workers are sometimes quick to point the finger at an employer as the reason for their boredom.

But more often than not an employer will not be able to read the warning signs that employees are bored. 

That is why it is important for employees to take a proactive approach to arresting the early signs of boredom – because being bored at work does not do you any favours.

Steps to remedy this can include meeting with your manager and explaining that you would like to take on some new responsibilities. No need to tell your manager you are bored in your current role, simply suggest that you are up for some new challenges.

Or maybe offer to assist a co-worker who seems to be overburdened with work. Not only will the co-worker most likely appreciate your support, you will gain some insight into a different work role.

Other employees address their boredom through seeking out appropriate professional development opportunities like seminars, short courses, and conferences. These types of activities can provide a much-needed fresh perspective and can result in employees adopting a reinvigorated approach to their roles.

Think also about looking for new opportunities with your current employer. For example, you might be aware that someone is about to take leave from their role, which could provide an opportunity for you to fill that role on a temporary basis. 

If all else fails and you find yourself in a soul crushing predicament, it might be time to take the plunge and look for a new role outside your current organisation.    

Channel your boredom into a new-found creativity, to locate and secure a role that provides you with the challenge and stimulation you need to be engaged and successful in the workplace.