We’ve all been there—slumped over a desk, glazed eyes fixed on a clock that is moving slower than a snail in molasses, brain singularly focused on when the workday will be O-V-E-R. Even if you enjoy your job, boredom has a way of creeping up now and then. And for you recent college graduates, boredom is likely to creep up and stick around, as nearly half of you won’t immediately find a job that requires your degree. So while you may not be able to change your job, or even to make big changes to your routine, making small changes to your daily grind can go a long way toward beating office boredom.

Try some of these easy ways to jump-start your job:

• Change up your workspace. Staring at the same gray cubicle walls can make anyone feel uninspired. When you fall into a slump, create a little inspiration by mixing up your workspace. Try adding some extra lighting, some new photos in fun frames, or a flowering plant or two. Even changing the orientation of your desk can give you a fresh perspective—literally.
• Take on some new responsibilities. Even if—no, especially if—the work you already have is boring you, taking on more work is a surefire way to cure boredom. How does that happen? First, more work means less downtime, and less opportunity to slip into boredom. Second, more work gives you the chance to fill your schedule with tasks that are more interesting to you. You can even take on “fun” work, such as volunteering to plan the company picnic or holiday party. As an added bonus, you get to diversify your portfolio and impress your boss with your ambition!
• Pick some brains. Think of several top performers in your company, both fresh faces and seasoned pros, as well as your boss. Then take each out for coffee or lunch. Use this time to ask questions about what motivates them, where they think the organization and industry are heading, and what big projects are on the horizon. At best, you’ll get some useful information or an offer to help with a project, and at the very least, you’ll have made a new connection.
• Get more rest. We’re not suggesting napping on the job, rather, considering if the real source of your boredom stems from your time outside of work. Are you eating right? Getting enough sleep? Drinking enough water? Exercising? Your lifestyle choices can quickly affect your overall energy level and ability to focus on your work. If you haven’t set yourself up to focus on your work duties, a wandering mind and boredom are sure to follow.

Now here’s a conclusion you didn’t expect: if these small changes don’t cure your boredom, try embracing the doldrums for a little while. Downtime can work wonders for creativity by allowing your mind to move freely and to arrive at ideas it may not have found under other circumstances. And if all else fails, don’t be afraid to check out of the office for a few days. A little vacation time, even if it’s just unwinding at home, can be just the thing you need to feel refreshed and ready to tackle work anew, at least for a few more months.