No, this blog is not specifically for painters or photographers. The way any person frames their work can have a dramatic impact on how satisfied they are with the job they’re doing. Sometimes, you may feel bored and unfulfilled by your job or a particular project, but those negative feelings may be corrected with a little reframing. When you understand the context in which you do your job — or anything at all — you may find added meaning that you didn’t know was there. Here is a quick guide to framing that can help you feel good about the work that you do.

Your Work Doesn’t Happen in a Vacuum

The work that you do at your job or as part of a creative project doesn’t happen in isolation. In most cases, your work touches the lives of other people — be they your coworkers, collaborators, or the people you’re serving with your work. Understanding this context is a vital part of feeling satisfied with the job you’re doing. If you design road signs for a living, this may not feel like the most creative use of your artistic talents, however, the work that you’re doing is helping to keep people across your community safe. Framing your job with context can give you a lift throughout your day.

Do You Compare Yourself to Others All the Time?

One of the most destructive things you can do in any creative or work situation is to spend lots of time and energy comparing yourself to others. Are you on pace with a former classmate? Are you “chasing your dreams” on a daily basis? Social media is full of aspirational quips and imagery, but those things can be harmful to your mindset at work. If you can only do a good job when compared to other people, then you’ll never be satisfied. Your work needs to stand on itself, and you should evaluate the job you’re doing based on your own performance standards.

It’s Okay to Aspire for More

This isn’t to say that everyone should just deal with their current situation, whatever it may be. You might be in a work environment where you’re not appreciated, or your work truly doesn’t connect to you on any sort of personal level. In those cases, it’s okay to aspire for more and consider a change. However, it’s important to note that dissatisfaction with your current job or project may not always be fixed by making a big change. You may need to simply adjust your mindset and take stock of the context in which you do your work.

Take on Your Next Big Project at Dunn Brothers Coffee

We understand how important it is to feel connected to your work. We love coffee — from sourcing, to roasting, to brewing, to serving it — and that’s why we do what we do. We also understand the impact that a perfect cup of coffee can have on someone’s day. If you’re ready to find a perfect bean and roast partner for your tastebuds, come give us a visit. You can learn about all of our offerings by contacting Dunn Brothers Coffee in Coralville, IA at 319-665-2020.