Turn The Daily Drag Into A Lifetime Pursuit Of Fun

The state of the economy isn't the only negative factor for the average American worker. Gallup reports 70 percent of Americans feel disengaged from their line of work, stating there's not much to be happy about besides the paycheck. If you feel like the rat race is about to get the better of you, change your attitude and daily schedule to better improve your mood and productivity.

Work Out While You Work

The links between physical fitness and positivity have been proven time and again by psychologists. The American Psychological Association reports regular exercise makes a person feel less anxious and more positive. How can you get a workout in if you have a desk job? Take a five-minute break at least once a day to go up and down the entire stairwell. Once you're done, hold out a heavy object like a stapler at arm's length in both hands until your muscles hit the exhaustion point; do the same with your legs by putting a phone book on your feet. You'll feel rejuvenated as soon as your muscles relax and your brain releases endorphins.

Play Some Tunes

Just as your mood responds well to exercise, music helps you perform tasks and feel positive. In fact, reports WebMD, it doesn't even matter what type of music you listen to, so long as it's being pumped into your eardrums. If you can't bring in a stereo to work, stream music from your Web browser using a service like Pandora, Spotify, or Listen.fm to get connected to rock, blues, or even opera. Time yourself on certain tasks with and without music, and you'll notice how much more productive you are.

Take A Ride

Perhaps the worst part of any job lies in the commute. Unless you're fortunate enough to live within a block of your office, getting through rush-hour traffic and finding a parking spot can drag your state of mind down before you even open the door to your workplace. It's easy to turn the commute into a passion, however, by going into work each day on the back of a motorcycle. Motorcycles are easier to park, easier to maintain, cheaper to fill up, and just plain more fun. Look for the right protective gear and motorcycle accessories in order to be sure you hit the ground running with the right equipment for a bike. Remember to consider brand-specific accessories (such as tires) to ensure a perfect fit.

Socialize With Your Co-Workers

Would you rather spend 40 hours per week with strangers or 40 hours per week with your friends? Perhaps the easiest way to enjoy your job is to enjoy the time spent with your co-workers. Indeed, you and your co-workers already likely share many of the values that PsychologyToday.com reports lead to friendship — common interests (succeeding at work), history (educational and professional background), and equality (working as a team). Encourage off-the-clock socialization, such as going for drinks or meals after work, and generate inter-office conversations to better enjoy your time with your fellow workers.