How to Make Time Fly at a Boring Job

Daydreaming at work can get you in trouble with the boss.

Whether you have been at your job for years or it is a new job that you need, if you are bored at work, it can have an impact on your work performance. Boredom at work can also cost you your sanity. Being bored at work can make your eight hours go slowly. But you can make a few adjustments that help your day go faster and help break up the boredom of doing the same thing every day.

Things You'll Need

• Radio
• Caffeinated drink

Instructions

1. Keep your eyes off of the clock. This can be hard to do if you work on the computer or in close proximity to a wall clock. However, if you don't watch the time, it is likely to go more quickly.

2. Break up your day as best you can. Schedule any breaks and your lunch at regular intervals to effectively break up your day. Change your tasks as often as possible to avoid doing the same thing for too long.

3. Race yourself or another coworker in completing a task. Make sure you still do the task properly, but see if you can do it faster next time. Making your work into game can reduce the boredom and make time go faster.

4. Think about your plans for the evening, the weekend or your next vacation as you work. This works well if your work doesn't require your full attention. Multi-tasking helps you get more done and keeps your mind off the time.

5. Listen to music while you work. Place a radio on your desk or tune in through the Internet. If you are allowed, use headphones to avoid interrupting your coworkers.

6. Keep yourself busy. If you sit with nothing to do, time is going to seem to go more slowly. However, if you are always working at a task, your eight hours will be done before you know it.

7. Drink coffee or soda when you need a boost. Caffeine is a stimulant and can trick your brain into thinking that time is moving more quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution if you decide to use the Internet or a book to pass the time. Your boss may not appreciate you using work time for personal tasks.

References

• The New York Times: Where Did the Time Go? Do Not Ask the Brain