by Doris Helge, Ph.D.

“Happiness at work” isn’t the name of a fairy tale. It’s a reality for many employees, managers, and entrepreneurs — people just like you. You’ve probably heard that Google employees can wear their pajamas to work and be rewarded with excellent pay, exotic job training, 5 star restaurants, a fun climbing wall, and other perks.

You may be moaning, “But I don’t work at Google!” Great news! You don’t have to work at Happy Time, Inc. to enjoy meaning, fulfillment, and joy at work. Your happiness is never dependent on what a boss, coworker, or client does. You can immediately begin to create a work life packed with productivity, passion, and joy. Here are some quick tips.

FEED YOUR NEEDS. You’re happy at work and you do your best work when your needs are met. Structure your work life so you do more of the tasks that are the most meaningful and fulfilling to you. Identify and communicate your unmet needs in a win-win way. You’ll create a healthy coaching and constructive feedback system.

STRESS YOUR STRENGTHS. Identify and emphasize your strengths. Most people spend far too much time trying to correct, rather than manage, their weaknesses. Joy on the job emerges when you use your talents in ways that express your special abilities and benefit others. You came to Earth fully prepared to make a special contribution that only you can make.

DEVELOP A SIGNATURE STYLE. Since you’re a gift to this planet, identify what’s unique about your personality and talents. Sell the brand called “You.” Develop a signature style that ensures that clients, managers, and coworkers notice your skills and talents. They’ll lavishly reward you for your special contributions.

BE YOUR OWN BOSS (EVEN IF YOU HAVE ANOTHER ONE). Whether you are an entrepreneur or you work for a company, you are the CEO of Your Inner Firm. Be accountable to yourself by doing your best work. Just as effective organizations do, make sure the staff in your organization (you) receive the best possible training. Watch your joy on the job surge with self-initiated education. Use the Internet, mentors, virtual networking, classes, and trade association meetings to create more happiness at work.

SHINE BY SHARING YOUR SPECIAL SKILLS AND TALENTS. Volunteer to mentor someone who’s struggling with an activity you’ve already mastered. This will invariably boost your skills and knowledge. You’ll soon become even more aware of your professional passion and life purpose. Since happiness at work grows when your self-esteem rises, you’ll also enjoy more joy on the job.

You’ve just read a few examples from over 300 ways to create job satisfaction. Over 300 techniques were revealed during the national “Happiness at Work Studies” that led to the book, “Joy on the Job.” Download a sample chapter from the book, “Joy on the Job,” at http://MoreJoyOnTheJoy.com and discover how to make your job a sources of smiles.

Also tell us what teleseminars you want to attend, such as:

__ How to redesign your current job so you shine while you share your special talents
__ Discover how to easily resolve conflicts with “difficult people”
__ Manifest your dream job so you can enjoy work-life balance
__ Be heard and get your needs met at work

Visit http://MoreJoyOnTheJob.com now and get more free tips, podcasts, & special reports. Sign up for the free “Joy On the Job Ezine” and teleseminars. Doris Helge, Ph.D., is a coach, corporate trainer, and speaker. She is author of “Joy on the Job,” “Transforming Pain Into Power,” and other books. Dr. Helge hosts the “More Joy on the Job” radio show. Download sample chapters from Doris’ books at http://www.MoreJoyOnTheJob.com

© 2008. This article was excerpted with permission from “Joy on the Job” by Doris Helge, Ph.D. Permission to reprint is granted by the author as long as the article is left in tact and proper attribution is given.