We all have expectations about what we want from our work, in addition to that fat paycheck, of course. Ask yourself, are you truly getting what you want and need from your career? Take the time to reflect on what you really want so you can make better career choices this year.
Ask yourself: Do you desire happiness, job satisfaction or engagement?
What? Don’t most people want all three? Of course. However, sometimes we need to make trade-offs because rarely can we have it all – at least not all at once!
#1: Work Happiness
Do you jump out of bed on Monday morning, eager to start your workweek? Or do you hit the snooze button on your alarm several times and, in spite of your dread, finally drag yourself into your morning routine?
Work happiness is an emotional state. The Greater Good Magazine, published by The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley, defines it as a feeling of an overall sense of enjoyment and well-being at work.
Happiness at work is probably a minimum requirement for most of us. Yet it may not be enough for many.
Consider the following examples:
Jack Went for the Perks
Jack loved his company’s perks at first. His employer provides free meals and snacks, beer and wine on Fridays, and a gym on-site. However, after a year or so, he became bored with his job.
He expected challenging work. “I thought I would have opportunities to make a difference. And now I know that it is really just a job. All I’m really doing is helping the company make more money. ” Needless to say, the company perks are not enough to keep Jack excited about his work, nor truly engaged in it.
Mary Enjoys the Camaraderie
Mary appreciates her colleagues. “I love them. When I was sick recently, my coworkers came to see me and supported me. But the demands of the job are awful. I don’t have time to have a life! I’m happy when I’m at work, but stressed!”
Mary is so worn out by her long hours that she feels like she is experiencing the famous “burn out” that isn’t supposed to hit until later in her career, if at all. She is young. She has many more years of work ahead of her.
While happiness on the job may well be necessary, it might not be enough for many of us.
#2: Job Satisfaction
Job satisfaction is about work and our employers meeting our expectations rather than just enjoying the workplace.
Jerry Dislikes Inconsistencies
Jerry admits he expected his current employer to have fair and consistent policies. However, he says, “Some people are allowed to do whatever they want while others are not.” While he likes his coworkers and the job perks, he isn’t really satisfied with his job. He feels like his employer is falling down by inconsistencies and what he believes are unfair practices.
Sara Welcomes Growth Opportunities
Sara went to work in her current job because of the many opportunities to grow and develop professionally. “I always wanted to work for this organization because I thought I could learn so much.”
However, she is disappointed in her employer because the company refuses to take action on critical social issues. “I can’t engage anymore,” she says with a deep sigh.” I am worn out from arguing with my bosses about why we should be more vocal on immigration issues.”
All of us have expectations. And promises kept lead to greater job satisfaction. Nevertheless, our real passion is not merely happiness at work, nor satisfaction with our jobs.
#3: Engagement
Engagement is about passion for work. All of us tend to engage when we experience our work as meaningful.
Michael Steger, founder and director of the Centre for Meaning and Purpose, and a professor at Colorado State University offers the following three questions concerning meaningful work:
- Does work have significance and purpose?
- Does it contribute to finding a broader meaning in life?
- Does it make a positive contribution to the greater good?
Ben Smock, Director of Development for Canopy, a nonprofit promoting good business for Kentucky, says that he chose to work for this organization because he wants to do something transformational. “To me, being part of a movement is more meaningful than simply holding down a job.” He believes he can make a real difference through his work for Canopy.
By engaging with your work, you may trade off some workplace happiness and job satisfaction. Work-engaged people sometimes experience more stress because the stakes are high. Likewise, high engagement could skew work-life balance from time to time. The choices are up to you.
Most employers want their workforce to engage because it is good for business. However, you must decide for yourself whether and how you want to participate. Everyone is unique. You have values, needs, and circumstances that differ from others. The level of work engagement that makes sense for you may not work for all.
To determine where work engagement should fit in your career pursuits, ask yourself the following questions:
- What role does work play in my life? Is it merely a means to end or part of my identity?
- Does the time and energy I apply to my work align with its importance to me?
- What would I be willing to give up for a job that provided me with meaning and a way to contribute to the greater good?
There are no right nor wrong answers—only truthful responses based on your current circumstances and desires. Be honest and non-judgmental with yourself. Use your answers and reflections to guide your career choices this year.
This reflection exercise is hardly “one and done.” Circumstances change over time. Commit to this exercise every year as a way to make intentional career decisions.
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