How Can We Make Sure We’re Working with Purpose?

Table of Contents

1. What Does it Mean to Work with Purpose?
2. Why is Work Purpose Important?
3. How Can We Make Sure We’re Working with Purpose?
4. How Do You Create Meaning and Purpose at Work?
5. What is an Example of a Good Mission Statement?
6. Wrapping Up

Have you ever found yourself asking, “What’s the point of all this?” while sitting at your desk, staring at your computer screen? It’s not uncommon to feel like you’re just going through the motions, to earn your salary, lacking a sense of real purpose in your work. Fear not, though. There are ways to make sure you’re working with purpose and to ensure you feel fulfilled in your career. In this article, we’ll discuss what it means to work with purpose, why it’s important, and how to ensure we are working with purpose so we can work more effectively and productively. Before we look at how we can ensure we’re working with purpose we first need to discuss what we mean by that. Let’s get into it.

What Does it Mean to Work with Purpose?

Working with a purpose means you have a clear understanding of why you do what you do, and how it contributes to a larger goal or mission.

It’s about having a sense of direction and meaning in your work, rather than just going through the motions to collect your wage. When you work with purpose, you feel motivated, engaged, and fulfilled in your career.

You are focused on achieving your goals and making a positive impact, whether it’s in your company, industry, or on society. Ultimately, working with purpose can lead to a more fulfilling and rewarding career because you’re not just working to pay the bills, but also towards something greater than yourself.

Next, we’ll investigate why finding purpose in our work is important.

Why is Work Purpose Important?

Work purpose is important because it gives us a sense of meaning and fulfilment in our careers. When we work with a sense of purpose, we feel motivated and engaged in our work, which can lead to better performance, increased productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.

Here are some reasons why work purpose is important.

Increased motivation – When we understand the purpose behind our work, we feel more motivated to do our best and achieve our goals. Purpose gives us a reason to work hard and push through challenges.

Improved job satisfaction – When we feel like our work is meaningful and aligned with our values, we are more likely to feel satisfied with our jobs. Purposeful work can help us feel more fulfilled and content in our careers.

Higher engagement – Purposeful work can lead to higher levels of engagement, which can benefit both the individual and the organisation. Engaged employees are more productive, innovative, and committed to their work.

Improved well-being – Purposeful work can also have positive effects on our overall well-being. When we feel like our work is making a positive impact, we are more likely to experience feelings of happiness, fulfillment, and satisfaction.

Positive impact on society – Purposeful work can also have a positive impact on society. When organizations and individuals work with a sense of purpose, they are more likely to contribute to the greater good and make a positive impact in their communities.

In short, work purpose is important because it can lead to increased motivation, improved job satisfaction, higher engagement, better well-being, greater productivity, and a positive impact on society. By finding meaning and purpose in our work, we can create more fulfilling and rewarding careers, while also contributing to a greater mission or goal.

It’s time to find out how to make sure we’re working with a purpose.

How Can We Make Sure We’re Working with Purpose?

Here’s some advice you can follow to make sure you’re working with purpose.

• Define your personal mission statement – Write down your values and goals to help you decide what you want to accomplish in your career and life.
• Set meaningful goals – Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that align with your personal mission statement.
• Identify your passions – Find what you’re passionate about and try to incorporate it into your work. It’s well known that if you do what makes you happy, you’re likely to be more productive. Check out “How does being happy make you more productive” for more.
• Stay focused – Avoid distractions and prioritise tasks that contribute to your goals. For more on why we struggle to focus and some tips to help you, read our earlier post.
• Seek feedback – Ask for feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and mentors to gain insight and improve your performance.
• Reflect regularly – Take time to reflect on your progress and adjust it as needed.
• Connect with your co-workers – Build relationships with your colleagues and collaborate on projects that align with your purpose.
• Give back – Volunteer or contribute to a cause that aligns with your personal mission statement to feel more fulfilled.

By following these steps, you can make sure you’re working with purpose and feel more motivated and fulfilled.

How Do You Create Meaning and Purpose at Work?

Creating meaning and purpose at work is a process that requires intention and effort. Here are some ways you can create more meaning and purpose in your work if you find it lacking and feel unmotivated as a result.

Understand your values and goals – Take the time to reflect on your personal values and goals. Consider how they align with your current job. Ask yourself what you want to accomplish in your career and how you can contribute to a greater purpose.

Seek out challenges and learning opportunities – Look for ways to stretch yourself and grow in your role. Take on new projects or responsibilities, attend conferences or training programs, and seek feedback from colleagues to improve your skills.

Find ways to make a positive impact – Identify areas where you can make a difference in your company or industry, whether it’s by volunteering for a project, initiating a new program, or simply going the extra mile to help your colleagues.

Build relationships with colleagues – Connect with your co-workers and build positive relationships. Collaborate on projects, offer to help when needed, and take the time to get to know your colleagues better.

Take care of your well-being – Prioritise your physical and mental health by practicing self-care. Make time for exercise, relaxation, and hobbies outside of work to help you recharge and stay motivated.

By incorporating these strategies into your work life, you can create more meaning and purpose in your career. Remember, it’s an ongoing process, and it takes time and effort to cultivate a sense of purpose in your work. Nevertheless, by staying focused and committed, you can find more fulfilment and satisfaction in your career.

What is an Example of a Good Mission Statement?

If one of the most important things you can do to ensure you’re working with purpose is to write a clear mission statement, it’s a good idea to consider an example of a good one.

A good example of a purpose or mission statement is one that’s clear, concise, and impactful. It defines an organisation purpose and values and outlines how a business aims to make a positive impact on the environment through its business practices.

Good mission statements are simple, memorable, and actionable. They communicate a clear purpose and inspire others to join in their mission. A good purpose or mission statement should define your purpose, values, and goals in a way that is easy to understand and is memorable, while also inspiring action and commitment.

Wrapping Up

Working with purpose is about finding meaning and fulfilment in your career. It’s about understanding your personal mission, setting goals that align with your stated purpose, and prioritising tasks that contribute to that mission. By staying focused, seeking feedback, and reflecting on your progress, you can work with purpose and make a positive impact in your career and perhaps even on the wider society.

Remember, working with purpose is an ongoing process that takes time and effort. It’s about finding a deeper meaning in your work and making a positive impact on the world. So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, employee, or student, take the time to clarify your purpose and stay committed to your goals. By doing so, you can create a more fulfilling and rewarding career while making a difference in the world.

If you enjoyed this and would like some tips on how to set goals to achieve what you wish,  be sure to read “4 New Ways to Set Goals: From Anti-Goals to Micro Goals” before you go.