If you’re like most people, you will spend about 90,000 hours of your life at work, the equivalent of 13 years and 2 months. Unfortunately, many people spend these hours doing something they don’t enjoy. For a happier and healthier life, it’s important to find a job you love. So, how do you find that right fit?
Know Your Strengths
The Gallup Organization reports that, “people who focus on using their strengths are three times more likely to report having an excellent quality of life, and those who use their strengths every day are six times more likely to be engaged on the job.” Work life impacts overall quality of life. While the CliftonStrengths assessment won’t tell you what specific job is best for you, it does give you clues to help you find a job you love. You will learn how you make decisions, how you build relationships, and how you get things done. When you know these things about yourself, you can filter your opportunities through this lens by reading job descriptions, asking targeted questions, and having language to describe yourself to employers. If you’re ready to find a job you love, know your strengths.
Try it On
Sometimes, a career path isn’t as clear as you’d like it to be. You may be overwhelmed by the options and possibilities with interest in many different areas within an industry or across industries. The best way to find a job you love is to “try it on.” Say yes to opportunities that interest you and see how they fit. If you’re fearful that your “yes” is a long-term commitment, remind yourself that you’re never stuck in a job. You can opt out if the fit isn’t a good one and try on something else. The caution, however, is to not be indiscriminate. As much as possible, choose jobs you could see yourself in long-term. Invest yourself fully in the present opportunity and evaluate it honestly. You may find a job you love where you are today or you may use this opportunity as a stepping stone to the next position.
Ask Good Questions
Interviewing is a two-way street. When you are ready to find a job you love, use the interview process to ask good questions about company culture, values, goals, and growth path. Saying yes to an interview doesn’t mean saying yes to a job. Follow the path as far as it takes you, knowing that ultimately, it rests on you to say yes or no if the offer is extended. Connect with others in the company to hear what they have to say about working in the organization to get the inside, unfiltered scoop. The job seeking process is an opportunity to explore and find a job you love by learning what energizes you and what doesn’t.
Whether you’re a new college grad or someone who’s currently misemployed, these tips will help you find a job you love. A healthier and happier life is possible when you do what you love every day.
