What Truly Makes Us Happy at Work? It’s not just a steady paycheck or a dream job title. Career happiness is a profound sense of fulfillment that comes when our work aligns with our needs and inspires us to grow. In this lesson, we’ll explore how to identify your needs, apply Maslow’s hierarchy to analyze them, and strike the right balance between work and personal aspirations.

 

What’s Missing From Your Career Happiness?

 

Start with this question: What’s missing from my career happiness? Take a moment to reflect and jot down your thoughts.

For example, I once realized I lacked feedback from my students. This realization drove me to develop a candidate-focused approach, where the individual takes center stage. This method not only earned me recognition—Estonia’s Recruiter of the Year in 2022—but also helped countless others find careers that bring them joy.

 

Why Understanding Your Needs Matters

 

A fulfilling job isn’t just a paycheck. It should meet your current needs and support your growth. But it’s essential to remember that needs evolve over time. If your job no longer meets them, it doesn’t always mean you need a drastic career change.

 

Maslow’s Hierarchy: A Practical Guide for Your Career

 

Psychologist Abraham Maslow identified five levels of human needs, and these can be applied to your work life:

• Physiological needs: Comfortable working conditions, reliable internet, and clear workflows.
• Safety: Stable income, clear career prospects, and a sense of job security.
• Social needs: Supportive colleagues, a mentor, and a sense of belonging.
• Recognition and respect: Awards, acknowledgment, status, and expertise.
• Self-actualization: Creativity, innovation, and making a meaningful impact on your industry.

Analyze your position within this hierarchy. Which of your needs are being met by your current role, and which are not?

 

When Changing Jobs Isn’t an Option

 

You can find balance without leaving your job:

• Freelancing: Explore opportunities on freelance platforms.
• Pet projects: Start a side project that excites you.
• Mentorship: Share your expertise with others.
• Blogging: Inspire and educate by sharing your experiences.
• Teaching: Create courses or give lectures.

 

Discover What Inspires You

 

Ask yourself: What would I do joyfully, even without being paid for it? The answer could hold the key to your inspiration.

For instance, during a professional crisis, I founded a school for recruiters. It not only gave me a fresh start but also provided a platform to share my knowledge and passion.

 

Growth begins outside your comfort zone

 

While it may feel cozy within, nothing new ever grows there. Reflect on what’s missing from your career happiness and take steps toward fulfilling it. Transform your work into a source of inspiration and growth, and it will surely bring you joy.

 

Julia Jolkin 👠👠

Top IT Recruiter & LinkedIn Expert

 

Feel free to contact me if you need:

• A review of your LinkedIn profile to understand how potential employers, partners, or clients perceive it. This will help you quickly find a job or confidently promote your services at any time. Sign up for the upcoming LinkedIn Makeover session.

• A career consultation to revise your career path and skills, especially if you haven’t been to an interview in a while and want to prepare thoroughly.