Do what you love, love what you do. I stuck those words on a Post-It in my old job as a reminder. It’s an idea that gets thrown around by self-help gurus—similar to “be yourself” or “follow your bliss.”
But what does it really mean in practical terms?
Do what you love
Are there parts of your job that you really can’t stand doing, the kind that makes you drag your feet and procrastinate until the last minute? If you can, delegate.
Notice which parts of your job light you up. Do more of that.
Say yes to things that will fill you with joy and positive energy. Make conscious time for these activities after work or during weekends.
Ask yourself: What do I need to stop doing so I can do more of what I love?
Love what you do
Are there parts of your job that you really can’t stand doing, the kind that makes you drag your feet and procrastinate until the last minute? If you can’t delegate, surround it with pleasure. Play some soothing music to relax you. Have a mantra such as “this too shall pass.” Reward yourself with a fun treat after you get it done.
If you work in an office where you feel you have “no choice,” see if you can shift your way of thinking. Choose to remember why you joined the company. Remind yourself about your end goal. Surround yourself with people who lift you up instead of dragging you down with gossip and negative energy.
Start your day from a place of love, which might mean building good habits the night before. Spend time with the people who make you happy. Make your skincare routine a treat instead of another obligation. Charge your phone in another room and get my dream alarm clock. Sleep early.
Notice the emotion. If you’re not feeling love, then what are you feeling? Why are you feeling this way? If you want to start loving what you do, you might have to start doing difficult things—honoring your feelings, having difficult conversations, stepping out of your comfort zone.