Wordscapes® - Why Work?

Ask that question of most people and they'll reply - so I can eat or to pay the rent. Yet, when they're asked what they would do if they won the lottery or if they had more money than they wanted or needed, a surprisingly high number say they would continue working - not necessarily full time or at the same job, but at some form of work. So, why else do people work?

1. Most people need to feel they are part of a group and be accepted by those around the most. We need to talk to others and share our thoughts with them. Being noticed, liked and accepted gives us a sense of belonging. Most work involves some contact with other people - employers, co-workers, customers and/or clients. By making friends and sharing experiences with others at work, we can satisfy some of our social needs.

2. Most people want to feel good about themselves. Levels of self-confidence and self-esteem are raised when we can do certain things well or when others say we've done a good job. Most people like to help others and feel useful. Even those who don't financially need to work, volunteer their time and services to maintain their need for self-respect, self-esteem and self-confidence.

3. Most people also need to feel fulfilled, and value feeling their efforts in life are worth-while. Self-fulfillment means satisfying our personal needs and desires - in both our working and non-working lives. People who find their jobs fulfilling see work as an opportunity to gain more knowledge, develop new skills and reach new goals. They continually challenge themselves to discover different meanings and interests in life.

Ask yourself, "Why is work important to me?" Think of your personal values that you need to have fulfilled by a job. The following survey may help you better understand why you work.

1. Think about how you would respond if someone asked you, "What is it that you really like about working?"

2. Look at the following list, and check off those needs and values that you consider to be most important. Choose as many as possible.

	having control over the work activities of others
	competition
	status/prestige
	money
	working independently
	self-worth/well-being
	having a sense of achievement or accomplishment
	self-improvement and growth
	socializing and working with people
	time freedom (no specific working hours required)
	being recognized and appreciated
	providing quality service work
	being creative
	being the best
	helping/caring
	hard work
	providing direction and leadership
	having vision (seeing the broad picture/issues)
	enjoyable and interesting work
	pleasant work environment and atmosphere