How do you overcome bordem in the office?

Because I have such a heavy workload, my employer and office manager have decided that I am no longer allowed to answer the telephone. I never really answered it excessively - just when the receptionist wasn't able to handle all the calls. Although highly specialized, my job is pretty routine - and yes, boring. The occassional calls would wake me up and give me a chance to speak with a human being. A lot of times they were people I needed to talk to anyway. Now, I feel like I am in a sweat shop where the only concern is how much work I can produce and everyone (except me) is racing to grab the phones. I've even been spoken to because I LOOK at the phone when it rings! I dread each day because I have almost no interaction with people. It wasn't like this before. I can't leave this job right now so how do I do this without going crazy?

Music and radio are also not allowed!

sounds like you work in a prison!

I have worked in HR for over 10 years and I would never want any of my employees to be subject to such an simplistic boring role - your manager's job is to help keep you engaged in the work you're doing. If they are not open to feedback, ie, getting music put in there, ask if you can bring in an ipod and listen to your music with headphones so you do not disturb anyone. Explain to them that it won't impact the volume or quality of your work and see what they say.

If they are still not open to it, I would start looking for a new organization to work in. This current place does not sound like they care at all about your well being or happiness. And frankly, if you have to do this 40 hours a week - find a gig you love!

good luck!