Do you work to live, or live to work? It’s a good question, and one that I use in interviews. The answer to the question is always interesting, but really does not tell the entire story about work motivation. The topic of “why we work” is fascinating and has been studied for decades. Depending on whom you ask, the reasons “why we work” will be different depending upon individual circumstances.
If you work, you probably know that it is easy to get caught up in the day-to-day minutia and lose sight of the bigger picture. Now and then, it’s good to take a step back from the routine and appreciate the good fortune of working. Beyond the paycheck, there are lots of reasons we work. Though the pay may be the focal point, the positive impact work has or should have on each of us brings to light how important jobs are to people. Here are some other reasons you may want to reflect on as to why we get up early, sometimes work late and work our butts off every day for 40 to 50 years:
Self-esteem — Often people will cite a sense of worth as one of the core reasons they work. Feeling like they did something important, earning a paycheck and making a contribution to their company and community often play important roles in employee satisfaction and self-esteem. Being recognized for their job performance also contributes to self-worth and is an affirmation that they are doing the job expected. If any of these are lacking in a job, it may negatively impact their view of their work, company and job.
Security — A fair and equitable compensation and benefits program should be expected by every employee in every company commensurate with the responsibilities and duties of the job. Pay and benefits provide a sense of personal security. Beyond addressing basic needs, pay and benefits provide opportunities for wealth creation, and for short- and long-term wants and needs.
Friendship and human contact — Sometimes overlooked as a critical component of why we work is the basic human need for socialization. Good work environments provide avenues and opportunities for people to interact and develop solid business relationships and, in some cases, friendships.
Making a difference — We survey thousands of employees each year at ERC, locally and nationally. Consistently, employees share that having a “purpose” in their job is an essential part of work. They tell us that they want to feel that they are contributing and making a positive impact in their businesses.
Intellectual stimulation — Work provides a terrific opportunity to be challenged. I do believe that all of us are inherently problem-solvers and innovators. We just need the right work environment where we can realize our potential. Challenging work is also cited by our survey participants as one of the top three reasons for job satisfaction.
Being part of something — Ever since we were kids we wanted to belong to something. It might have been a sports team, a club or a scout troop. Regardless of the activity, as human beings we have a need to be part of groups where there are shared values and interests. Work provides this opportunity of belonging for many people.
Ideally you are in a job that you like and in a workplace that has a great environment for all employees. If you are, then you probably appreciate your job, boss and company. Work is a big part of our days and it should be a great experience while you earn some cash. If not, you may be just “working to live.”