Purpose at Work: Why Do You Do What You Do?
This isn't about discovering your life's grand purpose; it's about finding the real purpose that resonates emotionally with you in your job. It’s that feeling of connection—why you get up every morning and do what you do, beyond the glossy job description or the impressive titles. It's about the impact you create and the value you add, like saying, "I run operations to ensure everything runs smoothly and make everyone’s life a little easier."
In Bullshit Jobs, David Graeber highlights a fundamental human need: the desire to serve and provide value through our work. When we don’t feel this connection, we can find ourselves clocking in and out, wondering if anything would change if we didn’t show up at all. This lack of fulfillment can lead to a sense of emptiness, as we yearn for deeper significance in what we do.
What if you took a moment to consider your personal purpose statement? This isn’t something you need to craft in a way to impress others; it's about writing something that genuinely resonates with you. When you read it, it should spark a sense of energetic connection—something that feels inherently true and aligns with who you are. If articulating this statement feels like a challenging task, it might be time to pause and reflect on what truly matters to you.
Where to Start
A good place to start could be to answer the following questions for yourself:
What do I find fulfilling in my work?
Who am I serving through my job?
What impact do I want to have on others?
Final Thought
Finding purpose isn’t just a professional task; it’s a personal journey that requires introspection and a willingness to connect with the deeper “why” behind your work. This journey can lead to increased motivation and satisfaction, transforming not only your professional life but also your overall sense of well-being. By embracing this process and recognizing the importance of your contributions, you create an environment where you can thrive—one that empowers you to show up authentically and make a meaningful impact each day.