The meaning of work

It is through the meaning we give to our work that we sublimate the value of our skills.

Motivation

Let's distinguish two types of motivation:

• the emotive motivation: it is the result of a temporary hormonal impulse. It is the easiest motivation to create and can be treacherous if one is not sufficiently aware of its nature. The emotional aspect of this motivation is characterized by its duration. Indeed, this kind of motivation lasts from a few minutes to a few hours, or even a few days, but then it fades away. It can be hidden behind the illusion of an inner motivation, and it is up to us to fight against this illusion in order not to abuse it.
• the inner motivation: it is a deep desire to persevere in a given goal.

This inner motivation can only be fed by the meaning we give to our actions, especially at work.

Ethic

Taking an interest in the meaning we give to our work also means making ethical choices. It is avoiding falling into the trap of a job that goes against our convictions and our values.

Hindsight

Here is a thought experiment that I propose, allowing us to realize the value that a job can bring us:

Imagine that you have been considered for the position. You work in this company for 12 months, during which you do the work that has been asked of you.

At the end of the 12 months, you take a summary of what you have accomplished.

Think of a typical example of what this might look like.

Are you proud of this outcome?

Passion

Passion may not be necessary in the short term, but in the long term it is essential to give the best of ourselves.

Again, here is a thought experiment that I think can help us see the world differently and realize things:

One day, a new neighbor arrives in your neighborhood. For the moment he has just moved in: you have not yet had the time to get to know him very well and have only met him a few times. As the weeks go by, you start seeing him go away for the weekend or invite friends over. You tell yourself at this point that he is happy. Also, his attitude and his car make you think he is making a good living.

Now let's assume that you are right.

What can we conclude from this?

Well, we can conclude that two days a week, this neighbor seems to be happy and enjoying life.

But deep down, you don't know him. You don't know the pressure he is under at work. You don't know what he's had to sacrifice to get there. Maybe he doesn't work for himself? Maybe he works hard all week just to enjoy his weekend?

Now comes the rhetorical question: would you rather be happy two days or five days a week? Why not all seven while we're at it?