If you view your work as merely performing your many responsibilities, you will be uninspired, overwhelmed and disengaged, yearning for the day and week to be over.

However, if you view your work as contributing to others’ success, you will be just the opposite. You will feel more energized, pouring yourself into solving complex problems and serving others through your technical capabilities.

You may ask if this just a mind game, regurgitating the power of positive thinking. Is this some kind of parlor trick or slight of hand (or mind)? No, the research is overwhelming.

We know from scientific studies in neuropsychology that your perspective affects your brain chemistry. Under duress, if you view your work as “performance,” your body will produce hormones like cortisol (a stress hormone). If you view your work as “contribution,” your body will produce dopamine (a motivation hormone). Depending which hormone is released drives your motivation and behavior. That’s the science. The truth is that you influence which chemical is released.

Try this: when you have some activity that you aren’t looking forward to, instead of “having to” perform it, think about “wanting to” contribute. In just a matter of minutes, the dread and drudgery you felt will dissipate and you will be energized to take on the task; at least enough to get you started. You will break the inertia of avoiding the activity and engage it with professional excellence.

The point is that your choice makes all the difference. This week, choose to contribute. You will feel better and contribute more.