Positivity is often stated to be the key to a happy life. However, maintaining a positive attitude grows increasingly difficult the older you get. Life isn’t always easy, and there are countless issues to deal with and obstacles to overcome. Holding down a job can be especially stressful because of having to constantly impress clients and/or supervisors. I’ve put together a few tips that helped me make my workplace a more positive place to be:

1. Always be organized. Much of the stress that stems from employment is due to missed deadlines and general disorganization. A color-coded work event calendar that includes things such as client meetings and deadlines can help you keep organized, on track, and positive.

2. Communicate effectively. Make sure you always relay pertinent information to coworkers, and listen to people when they are talking to you. Brushing people off is a sure way to guarantee you don’t get proper communication from them. When all parties communicate effectively, the workplace is much less stressful.

3. Smile often. While you should always take your work seriously, it does not mean that you should look stoic and unapproachable. Maintaining an upbeat manner and likeable smile goes a long way in keeping the lines of communication open between people. It also breeds positivity, which in turn reduces stress.

4. Take baby steps. Viewing giant projects in terms of the overall goal can be a bit overwhelming. However, when you take smaller steps that lead up to the end goal, you are able to view them as doable and are much less likely to become daunted. It is a great way to effectively reach your goals in a non-stressed and positive manner.

5. Finally, don’t take your work home with you, especially if stress comes with the territory. If you let your work life become your home life, neither place will be a positive one. Your home is your sanctuary, after all. Spend time there with your family and friends doing the things you love to do.

Perhaps some of these tips may come in handy as you tackle the challenges in your life. Reducing stress and increasing positivity will serve you well as you succeed at reaching your goals, whatever they may be.