“What makes work meaningful, and how can I find it?” Considering the average person spends around 90,000 hours on their career over a lifetime, finding purpose in your work is becoming increasingly important.

Defining Meaningful Work
From my experience coaching, I’ve learnt that meaningful work is personal and varies from person to person. Some people find satisfaction in the work itself, while others find meaning in what their work allows them to do, like supporting their families, making a difference in society by following a passion.

Meaningful work aligns with your long-term goals and core values. If your current job feels like it’s missing something, it might be because it’s not fully aligned.

Strategies for Finding Meaningful Work
To start your journey towards finding meaningful work, begin by defining what it means to you:

Reflect on what meaningful work looks like for you and why it matters.
Identify signs that will show you’ve found meaningful work.
Explore roles and companies that align with your vision.
Consider ways to bring more purpose into your current role, even if it’s temporary.
Once you’ve identified potential paths, research companies and roles that interest you. Join online communities and set up informational interviews to get a sense of the culture and what it’s like to work there.

When you’re ready to apply for positions, tailor your resume and think about including a personalised cover letter to show how your values align with the company’s mission.

Remember, finding meaningful work is a journey that takes time. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to pursuing work that aligns with your goals and values.

More Reading
Harvard Business Review – Finding Meaning in Your Work
TED Talks – The Power of Meaningful Work
Forbes – How to Find Meaningful Work in a Job You Already Have


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