Let’s face it, some jobs are just boring (or at least partially). But finding meaning in a dull job is not impossible. If you are stuck in a job that is monotonous, you can still find meaning in it by uncovering your reason for doing it. One way to find meaning in a job that isn’t dynamic is to question your motive and to frame your answer based on the impact you make on the people you serve. For example, a lifeguard (no offense to lifeguards around the world) at a local pool might say, “I sit here to save lives.” Even when a lifeguard spends the majority of their time simply looking at people swimming, a single rescue can help them discover how meaningful their job is. One caveat, though, avoid using selfish reasons, for example, “I do this job to earn money.” Even if those are powerful motivators, they are usually not what we think about when we think of a meaningful job.
Goal Setting, Personal Development
Can I Find Meaning in a Boring Job?
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Great post! I do disagree on one point though, I think you can find meaning in working for the sole purpose of earning money, if that money is being used to build the life you do want. For me personally, my job isn’t the most exciting but I’m self-funding my masters degree to build my skillset.
I also believe it’s okay to chase money for a little bit, after financial stability is something we all want.
I agree A.Jane. employers shouldn’t use money as a sole method of motivating employees but some employees are doing their job as a means to an end and the money they earn provides the resources for that. For you, it is funding your degree. I’m sure many can identify with that. For a former colleague of mine, she had 2 jobs because she wanted to have multiple holidays each year.
I do think though that it’s not as simple as that. If you had 2 jobs offering the same salary and similar terms and conditions, there will likely be other variables that would then be considered
I completely agree! Personally, I’m not sure if I could do two jobs at the same time though, especially if they are similar in salary and expertise but if her goal was to fund her holidays then I’m sure it worked well for her.
Yes you are right! Working two jobs for the sake of a paycheck gotta be the hardest thing to do. Thank you for commenting:)
The two jobs she had were different – different demands, totally different types of work. Her family was grown up, but I guess, apart from the holidays, she never had much of a life – really eat/sleep/work
That’s one of the worst things that can happen to an adult. Becoming a wage slave for no reasons at all.
I guess that was her priority, to work so she could travel
It was … Still is 😁
Same here…
I guess I can relate to that now, looking for places to explore and share in my blog … I need money to fund my weekends away 😅
Which is perfectly fine! Nothing wrong with wanting to travel, in fact that’s amazing!
Absolutely! That’s the best way to gain knowledge.
😅unfortunately blogging just doesn’t pay the bills. I am actually working a 95 job to work on my writing dreams.
I kind of now feel I’m passing time til I can retire and focus on blogging and writing
Same here Brenda!
Yess… that was the purpose and that is totally fine.
Well said Brenda. I totally agree with what you said Brenda. In Jane’s case two jobs are used as means to an end… A meaningful end. That in itself can make someone feel engaged on the job. Not knowing why we doing what we doing is the biggest motivation killer.
True. And if they start exploring their motivations, it may help them find a job that will deliver for them
Agreed!
You are absolutely correct! Well in your case you are using the money to improve yourself. Not just to get by. I think most people don’t have that kind of strength of purpose. So kudos to you Jane.
What an interesting post Bachir. I spend my life trying to teach future Managers and HR professionals the importance of designing jobs that are not boring as that has an impact on how well employees perform. But you’re right, despite my efforts, some jobs will remain boring or lack challenge. Finding purpose in your job is always a good thing. Research has found that when we have boring jobs, employees will invent games to keep themselves amused. Social interaction is also important. However, employers are less efficient and possibly less profitable if they have disengaged, bored employees. It is in their interest to review the design of jobs in their organisations.
You are absolutely right Brenda. I admire your enthusiasm to design jobs that keep employees engaged. Yes that’s true. Social interactions make a big difference in employees life. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us Brenda.
You can change « I work for the money » into « I work to have a decent life, to support my needs, and the needs of my family »
Interesting point thanks for sharing that. I will consider changing it.
Questioning our motive and framing our answer based on the impact we make can help us feel more engaged and fulfilled. I think it’s really important to really know what we really want in life.
Yes you are absolutely correct! Knowing what we want can definitely impact our job satisfaction and life in general.