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Joan was a feisty woman who worked most of her life as a bookkeeper; then, in her early seventies, she found herself looking for job as the result a corporate takeover. Frustrated in her search, she accused potential employers of age discrimination. While age discrimination might have played a part, as we discussed her situation Joan found an alternative explanation. She no longer wanted to work as a bookkeeper. Joan had enjoyed the hustle and bustle of working in an office, however, in recent years her primary enjoyment came from relationships at work. After talking about it, Joan realized she really wanted to work with homebound seniors, helping them with their household finances and providing companionship. It was easy to adjust her resume and send her off into a new, more fulfilling position.
Joan failed to realize that her values had changed. Not to be confused with morals or ethics, values are simply the beliefs we hold most sacred. Work values are a major component in determining our sense of career success and personal fulfillment. They are internal motivators and what we need to feel satisfied with work. Salary and benefits are often the initial focus in getting a job, but studies reveal they rarely rank above fifth in components needed for rewarding work. Values feed our spirit and sense of purpose.
Think about your own satisfaction with work and life. On a scale from one to ten, how fulfilled are you in your work? On a scale from one to ten, how fulfilled are you in your life? If you score below six on either, you may want to look at the values listed below to see what may be missing.
Creativity – This can be the expression of creativity and/or being in a creative environment. This often includes the need for less structure and more spontaneity.
Contribution – The desire to be part of something bigger than oneself. Usually there is a need to show concern for others and be involved in social or political activities.
Achievement – This can be manifested by a compelling sense of purpose or a need for competence. Influencing, leading and motivating others are included in this group.
Relationships – Building and maintaining meaningful relationship. Sharing of oneself. This could be with the people served, as well as the people you work with.
Search for Meaning – Looking for a greater significance. This includes wisdom, spirituality and feeling connected to a greater whole. It can also include self-transcendence.
Are you expressing what’s important to you? If not, what can you do, to bring more fulfillment into your life?
Her friends thought she was crazy. She didn’t need the money. But, at 69, Jeannette wondered if she might go to school and become a mediator. She had retired four years earlier after a career as a nurse. Initially, she traveled to see members of her family scattered around the country, took up bridge, exercised regularly and started painting. Life was okay, but she felt something was missing.
In writing down her values, Jeannette realized she wasn’t feeling engaged because her values weren’t being met. What she valued most were Knowledge, Personal Growth and Communication. Once she identified her values, it was easy to see why retirement was not what she really wanted. With this information, returning to school to become a mediator make perfect sense. And that’s what she did.
When we think about what we need and want from our work, we often don’t think about values. Whether you are in the process of looking for new work or wanting to renew the job you already have, taking a look at your values can become a great way to renewing your sense of fulfillment.
Cathy Severson, has a Master’s Degree in Career Counseling and over fifteen years experience assisting adults determine and reach their career goals. She is the creator of the acclaimed VISTa Life/Career Cards. Cathy has a private practice in Thousand Oaks, CA
If you have career and job search questions, please e-mail Cathy at cathys997@yahoo.com. She will answer your questions through this column on a monthly basis.
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