The Value of Work

Work doesn’t provide just the means of acquiring the basic necessities of life, though that is critical. It enhances the soul and the brain.

When I refer to work, I include all types of employment — salaried, commissioned, hourly, permanent, temporary, and freelance. I also add volunteering; military service, and last but not least, children. For play is the work of children.

By that definition most of us work.

The question is, “What is the value of work in addition to the paycheck?”

Employment Provides

1. Sense of satisfaction and self-worth: This sense of self-worth comes from a job well done, the people we have influenced, and for success in tackling a problem. It is a measurement we use to determine if we have met our expectations. It strokes our ego and helps us form an image of ourselves.
2. Role and status: Americans are quick to ask, “What do you do?” In their eyes it tells a lot about a person. It hints at hierarchy, financial level, power, and influence, which in many circles gives you status. And, just maybe, might be how you define yourself.
3. Intellectual stimulation: Many of us are fortunate to be involved in very interesting work and are surrounded by equally smart people. If you are blessed, you have access to a diverse group. For those with more routine work, sometimes they find the fringe of the job interesting, while others complete the tasks, so they can give more focus and energy to outside activities that are their passion. No judgment here but acknowledgement that feeding the brain comes in many ways.
4. Sense of structure: Talk to any retired or unemployed person and you will hear them speak of the joy of not having to get up in the morning or attend another meeting. They will also say they often feel “adrift” and “don’ get half as much done because I don’t have a routine.” Children aren’t the only people who benefit from structure. It reduces stress and anxiety; it helps you feel productive and valuable.
5. Social interaction: The number one complaint of entrepreneurs is loneliness, and the primary reason people ask to stop virtual-commuting and go back into the office, is isolation. The sense of belonging is a very human and undervalued asset of working. Ask anyone who has suddenly had it taken away. Many of us spend more time with work connections than our family or friends. Deep and long-lasting friendships develop as do collegial relationships. It is the human side of the workplace.

When looking at the value of your work and workplace there are these seemingly intangibles that either keep your there because of the rewards or encourage you to leave. They include 5 S’s — sense of self, status, stimulation, structure, and social interaction. I argue that once identified they can be measured, addressed, and altered to increase the value of work and enhance job satisfaction (another S).

What is your value of work?