Feeling frustrated with work annoyances that keep happening? These solution-focused ideas can help.

Do One Thing Different: Ten Simple Ways to Change Your Life by Bill O’Hanlon offers practical advice for anyone feeling stuck. While the book focuses on personal life, its strategies are equally effective in the workplace. Here are four key “solution-focused” strategies that can be applied to improve work relationships and productivity.

Break patterns: We often find ourselves in repetitive, unproductive loops, especially in interactions with others. To disrupt these patterns, first, identify the steps involved—like a dance, observe the moves you and others make. Then, try something different, even if it feels a bit out of character. For instance, if you usually stay silent while a colleague monopolizes a meeting, try interrupting enthusiastically—by saying, “Hey! I have something to add!” A single, unexpected action can shift the dynamic and lead to a different outcome.

Find exceptions: Instead of dwelling on what’s not working, focus on the moments when things go right. When does the problem seem less problematic or even absent? What were you doing differently at that time? Replicate those moments. For example, if you struggle to maintain an exercise routine due to meetings, notice when you do manage to work out. You might realize, as I did, that wearing exercise clothes first thing in the morning increases the likelihood of squeezing in a workout during a break.

Use action language: When making requests, be specific and frame them in action-oriented terms. Instead of saying, “I feel like you’re ignoring my emails,” try, “Please review the last email I sent and give me feedback.” Clear, direct communication can prevent misunderstandings and get you the results you need.

Reinforce what you want: “Catch” people doing good things, especially those you might typically view negatively. Acknowledge and reinforce their positive actions with verbal praise or approving nonverbal cues. For example, a psychology professor of mine shared how a class once “trained” him to favor the right side of the room by looking more engaged whenever he lectured from that side. Small reinforcements can lead to significant behavioral changes.

Next week, why not try one of these strategies? They’re simple, actionable, and can bring immediate benefits to your work life. And if this approach resonates with you, consider reading O’Hanlon’s book for more insights.

For those in the tech industry looking to make meaningful changes in their careers, I offer coaching that focuses on finding your personalized “one thing different” to try right away. If you’re interested, get in touch.