Looking for More Fulfilling Work? Start By Owning Your WHAT and WHY.

This spring I’m noticing a whole new allergic reaction. In addition to the regular sneezes from mold, on top of the typical eye irritation from airborne pollen, there’s a new itchiness — a yearning for real change.

• A move to reform institutional racism and inequity, not just with words but with allyship and actions

• A lunge toward vaccinations, relentlessly searching websites and driving clear across the state for appointments

• A craving for travel, reconnecting with missed loved ones or meeting new people, cities, and cultures

You are probably seeing the seeds of change drifting in the wind around you, too.

Forecasters predict we’ll see changes in the workforce, too. A recent Harris Poll survey for Fast Company that found 52% of U.S. workers want to change jobs this year. A more modest projection from a Kaspersky report states “35% of employees are thinking of shifting to a new job in the next 12 months.” At the very least, that means more than one out of every three employed people will be refreshing their resumes, logging on to LinkedIn, and networking for new opportunities.

HR professionals, eat your Wheaties. You’re going to need your strength.

What’s behind this widespread desire to seek new employment? According to Kaspersky, people are looking for increased wages, improved work-life balance, and more meaningful roles at work.

It makes sense. For over a year we’ve had more flexibility with when and where we do our work, and we’ve been reminded of what matters most in our lives. (Hint: it’s not 9-5 drudgery at a cubicle farm). Our time is valuable, and we want to be selective in how we use it.

We are itching to find Ikigai. 

No, that’s not a new rash-inducing allergen. It’s the Japanese ideology of embracing our reason for being. 

Ikigai (ee-key-guy) is a dedicated pursuit of the WHAT and WHY behind our work. It’s knowing ourselves, our strengths, and how we can best serve our community. It’s finding our unique sweet spot (often a synthesis of sweet endeavors) that allows us to do what we love, what we are good at, and what we can get paid for, all while filling a need in the world. Tim Tamashiro explains it in this TEDx Talk.

So if you are thinking about switching jobs, look for something in the intersection of three or four of those Ikigai areas.

And if you plan to stay put, but want to increase your fulfillment factor, consider how you might tailor your current work (or supplement it with a hobby or volunteer role) to bring more joy, excellence, income, or service into your life.

What is your “Next Right Step”?

• Whether you are considering a job change or want to tailor your current work landscape, we encourage you to reflect on which roles and responsibilities are most fulfilling to you, and why you are motivated to do that work. This understanding is great fodder for employment interviews or negotiating your next promotion.

  • You can download co:lab’s one-page “World of Work: WHAT” exercise and explore your unique Ikigai, naming what roles bring you joy, engage your unique strengths, provide income, and benefit others. 

  • The corollary “World of Work: WHY” worksheet will help you articulate your purpose, or how you feel called to use your expertise during this chapter of your life. It also encourages you to consider how your WHY intersects with your employer’s mission.

• If you are struggling to identify your purpose and strengths, we can guide you to clarity. Schedule a free 45-minute consultation to see how co:lab’s vocational coaching can guide your career trajectory.

• Already in your Ikigai sweet spot? Hooray! Be aware of friends and colleagues who are searching for a better fit with their current company or a new employer. Endorse their exemplary skills on LinkedIn, write a review or a recommendation, or connect them with someone who could benefit from their passion and strengths.

Whatever your next right step is, we want you to know your unique reason for being matters. The world needs you to fulfill your purpose, to share your special blend of skills.

Your friends at co:lab are here to support (and cheer) you along the way.