As February unfolds, with its heart-shaped chocolates and declarations of love, I find myself reflecting on a relationship that often goes unnoticed, my relationship with work. This Valentine’s season, I’m choosing to celebrate the joy of loving what I do, even when it’s challenging, imperfect, or downright exhausting. Here’s what I’ve learned about nurturing this relationship, along with practical tips to help you fall in love with your work too.
1. Rediscover Your “Why”
Every great relationship starts with a spark, and my career was no different. There was a moment—or maybe several—when I knew this was the path for me. But over time, the spark can fade under the weight of deadlines, routines, and stress. To reignite it, I’ve learned to reconnect with my “why.” Why did I choose this field? What excites me about it? What impact do I want to make?
Actionable Tip: Pair your “origin story” with a vision board. Add images or quotes that reflect your purpose and glance at them when motivation wanes.
2. Treat Work Like a Partnership, Not a Transaction
Love isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about the small, consistent acts of care. Similarly, loving your work isn’t just about landing a promotion or finishing a big project. It’s about showing up every day with intention. For example, volunteering for projects that align with your interests or seeking out learning opportunities can deepen your connection to your role.
- Listen to yourself: Pay attention to what energizes you and what drains you. Adjust your tasks or routines accordingly.
- Celebrate small wins: Did you solve a tricky problem? Receive positive feedback? Take a moment to acknowledge it.
- Communicate your needs: Whether it’s asking for help, requesting resources, or seeking new challenges, advocating for yourself is key.
Actionable Tip: At the end of each day, jot down one thing you accomplished or enjoyed. Over time, these small wins add up.
3. Embrace the Imperfections
No relationship is perfect, and neither is work. There will be days when things go wrong—projects fail, deadlines are missed, or plans fall apart. But I’ve learned to love the process, not just the outcome. The messy middle is where growth happens.
Storytime: Last year, I worked on a project that didn’t go as planned. Instead of focusing on the failure, I looked at what I’d gained—new skills, stronger relationships with colleagues, and a better understanding of my strengths.
Actionable Tip: The next time something doesn’t go as planned, ask yourself: What did I learn from this? How can I grow from it?
4. Cultivate Gratitude
Gratitude has the power to transform how we see our work. Each morning, I take a moment to reflect on what I appreciate about my job. Taking a moment to appreciate the positives, whether it is supportive colleagues, a flexible schedule, or the chance to learn something new, can transform how work feels. Gratitude doesn’t erase challenges, but it helps balance them with a sense of appreciation.
Actionable Tip: Start a gratitude journal for your work life. Each day, write down one thing you’re thankful for. Over time, you’ll notice a shift in your mindset.
5. Reignite the Flame
Passion can wane when routines become monotonous. Reigniting it often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Here are a few ways to do that:
- Learn something new: Take an online course, attend a workshop, or explore a new skill.
- Connect with colleagues: Build relationships with the people around you. Host a coffee chat or join a team activity.
- Revisit past wins: Look back at old projects or accomplishments. Remind yourself of how far you’ve come.
Actionable Tip: Block out 30 minutes this week to explore something new—whether it’s a skill, a tool, or a hobby related to your work.
6. Love Isn’t All Sunshine—And That’s Okay
Some days, work feels like a grind. But love isn’t constant euphoria—it’s about commitment. The tough days—the missed deadlines, the difficult conversations, the moments of self-doubt—are just as important as the wins. They build resilience, teach valuable lessons, and often lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
Actionable Tip: Create a “motivation mantra” for hard days. Mine is: This is temporary, and I’m building resilience.
7. Align Your Values with Your Work
Love deepens when values align. Does your work reflect what matters most to you? If not, can you find ways to bring your values into your daily tasks? Take time to reflect on what matters most to you, whether it’s creativity, collaboration, or making a difference and find ways to bring those values into your daily tasks. If there’s a disconnect, consider how you can bridge the gap or explore new opportunities that better align with your priorities
My Experience: I once worked in a role that didn’t fully align with my passion for creativity. Instead of leaving, I found ways to incorporate creative projects into my work, which made a world of difference.
Actionable Tip: Write down your top 3 values (e.g., innovation, community, integrity). How can you bring them into your work?
8. Celebrate Milestones
Just as couples celebrate anniversaries, it’s important to honor your professional milestones. Did you hit a five-year mark? Master a new skill? Finish a challenging project? Take time to celebrate.
Actionable Tip: Plan a small celebration for your next win—whether it’s a fancy dinner, a weekend getaway, or simply sharing your achievement with friends.
9. Set Boundaries for Sustainable Love
Passion without boundaries can lead to burnout. I’ve learned to guard my time and energy fiercely. Setting clear limits, whether it’s logging off at a certain time, saying no to extra tasks, or taking regular breaks—protects your energy and creativity. Boundaries aren’t selfish; they’re essential for long-term success and well-being.
How I Do It:
Set clear work hours and stick to them.
- Take breaks throughout the day.
- Say “no” to tasks that overload me.
Actionable Tip: Audit your schedule this week. Identify one task or habit that drains your energy and eliminate it.
10. Embrace The Change
Relationships evolve, and so do careers. A role that once fit perfectly might feel constricting later. That’s okay—growth requires change.
Storytime: I once transitioned from a role I’d outgrown to a new position that challenged me in exciting ways. It was scary, but leaning into the discomfort helped me grow.
Actionable Tip: Write down one fear holding you back (e.g., public speaking, asking for a raise). Take one small step to face it.
11. Leave Room for Play
All work and no play dulls passion. Injecting playfulness into your routine—whether it’s decorating your workspace, starting a team tradition, or taking a creative break can boost morale and spark innovation. Play reminds us that work can be joyful, not just productive.
Actionable Tip: Add one playful element to your workday this week, a colorful notebook, a funny screensaver, or a team trivia session.
12. When It’s Time – Let Go
Sometimes, love fades despite your best efforts. If your job no longer aligns with your goals or values, it’s okay to walk away. Ending a chapter with grace can open doors to a better fit.
Actionable Tip: If you’re considering a change, make a list of “pros and cons”. Talk to trusted friends or mentors for advice.
Ending Note
This Valentine’s Day, I’m not just celebrating romantic love. I’m honoring the quiet, steady love I’ve built with my work, a bond forged through purpose, resilience, and intentionality. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. When we love what we do, we don’t just clock in; we show up fully, creating ripples of impact far beyond ourselves.
Here’s to the late nights, the “aha!” moments, and the work that shapes us. May we nurture it, challenge it, and love it fiercely not just in February, but every day.
