You’ve probably heard the Confucius quote, “if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” It sounds like a tall order, particularly when you feel a lack of passion and enthusiasm for your job. Of course, work isn’t the only thing that influences happiness, but it is where you spend the majority of your time. Can it really make you happy? Many factors come into play, such as the way you’re managed, how much you like your co-workers, and your role within an organization. But work that also matches your interests and maintains your motivation is much more likely to keep you absorbed and content. Not exactly a surprise! Then why does it feel so elusive?
What Are The Characteristics Of A Fulfilling Career?
When it comes to career fulfillment, there’s a combination of factors that come into play. For starters, you have to believe in what you’re doing and it has to matter to you. Your work needs to have a purpose and positive impact – not necessarily on the entire world, but perhaps just one person. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your life for the work you do. “Work-life balance” is a popular term these days, but it certainly means different things to different people. Autonomy and freedom are also important. If you think you have to be somewhere for X amount of time just to put in “face time,” that usually leads to dissatisfaction. And last but not least, it’s important to get compensated for the work you do, so you don’t feel like you’re struggling to make ends meet.
Which Jobs Would Make You Happiest?
Studies abound about job satisfaction and occupations that rank high and low on the happiness scale. But whatever the averages say, you are probably going to be happiest in a job for which you are better suited. Consider personal factors and start by asking yourself the following five questions. They may seem simple, but when you really sit down and map out the answers, you may discover something you never thought about previously:
- What am I good at? And is there a job where I can do it?
- What do I like to do? And is there a job which involves that activity?
- When have I felt happiest? Is there a job that replicates that situation?
- Which jobs am I qualified for based on past experience?
- Which jobs meet the criteria above and provide enough income?
Feeling “stuck” in your current job? Read our article on Tips For Dealing With A Work Slump. If you’re interested in engaging your organization in Professional and/or Personal Development to increase job satisfaction, call Leah M. Joppy & Associates at 301-670-0051 or email us at leah@lmja.com. We’d love to discuss your objectives!