Finding Joy in the Work You Do

“I'm excited to go to work tomorrow.”

That’s what I told my husband today while chatting on my commute home.

He stopped me mid-story and said, “I don’t think I’ve ever heard you say that before.”

And he’s right.

I’ve enjoyed roles in the past, but this is the first time I’ve felt this level of energy about what I’m doing.

The difference?

✨ I get to build authentic relationships and connections
✨ I have the chance to create events that bring people together
✨ I feel trusted, supported, and empowered
✨ The work aligns with my core values
✨ I get to design spaces that are both welcoming and meaningful
✨ I have the opportunity to assist and advocate for military-connected students

That moment made me reflect on my own journey. There was a time when I felt like I was simply going through the motions—no real passion, no spark, just meeting expectations. It wasn’t until I made intentional changes in how I approached my work and shaped the environment around me that I began to wake up feeling excited and energized for the day ahead.

And that brings me to a quote that really resonated with me recently:

“You can’t belong in a place that only tolerates your existence.”

It got me thinking about how easy it is to fall into a routine where we feel like we’re just going through the motions—whether at work or in other areas of our lives. It’s one thing to be accepted, but being merely tolerated is a different story. Over time, that can leave us feeling disconnected, drained, and unmotivated. It’s easy to feel like we’re just existing, not truly thriving.

But here’s the good news: We don’t have to settle for merely being tolerated. We all deserve to feel like we belong—to be seen, heard, and valued for who we are. And while it may take time to create those meaningful connections, it’s possible to start making changes that can help us feel more engaged and fulfilled, even in situations where a big shift—like changing jobs—might not be an option right now.

Here are some things I tried that made a big difference for me, and I hope they can help you create a more supportive, energizing environment too:

✅ Set healthy boundaries – Take charge of your time and well-being by setting clear boundaries that allow you to create balance in your life.

✅ Leverage (or start) an Employee Assistance Program – Utilize resources like an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to get the support you need for your mental health and overall wellness.

✅ Personalize your workspace – Create a workspace that feels more comfortable and inspiring. Small changes, like adding a plant or personal touches, can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.

✅ Build a network of allies – Surround yourself with colleagues who can offer support and share your values. Having a network of people who uplift and encourage each other makes a huge impact on motivation.

✅ Propose new projects or improvements – If there’s an area that could be improved or a new idea you believe in, speak up and suggest it. Taking initiative can help you feel more invested in your work.

✅ Volunteer for causes you care about – Whether it’s through your job or outside of it, getting involved in causes that align with your passions can reignite your sense of purpose and help you stay motivated.

You may not be able to change everything around you at once, but by taking small steps, you can create an environment where you feel more aligned with your values and more energized. Sometimes, those small changes are the ones that make the biggest difference.

Here’s to creating more spaces where we can all feel like we truly belong—and to more of us waking up excited to say, “I can’t wait to go to work tomorrow”—and not just because it’s the weekend. 💓