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Having a sense of purpose in life is essential for one's wellbeing. Same as the importance of having a sense of purpose in one's role at work, especially when we spend long hours of our lives in our workplaces.
Did you know that 70% of workers feel that their work determines their sense of purpose? [1] Nowadays, more people reflect their sense of purpose at work, and they are ready to quit their jobs if they feel that it doesn't offer them a significant purpose in their lives.
According to a survey conducted by McKinsey & Company, in 1,000 U.S-based workers, almost two-thirds of them say that COVID-19 caused them to reflect on their purpose in life. [2] This data is not a surprise to us because, as of the current, we read and hear in the news what they called "Great Resignation", wherein a large number of workers are retreating from pre-COVID work setup. [3]
Workers expect their jobs to bring that significant purpose in their life. Purpose-driven workers result in a more productive workplace as they tend to be more adaptable and satisfied with their job. Creating a strong sense of purpose is critical to employees' health and wellbeing.
Here are 3 ways to build a sense of purpose in the workplace.
Involve the whole team
One great way to build a sense of purpose among your employees is to involve the whole team in discussing goals, objectives, company updates and essential decisions. This will allow them to feel that they belong and are connected to the organisation's purpose, and feel part of something bigger. Businesses must be clear with the "Why" to build engaged teams that feel fulfilled. Identifying your organisation's values reflects on how you are contributing to others. An organisation with a strong sense of purpose has excellent room to align with and contribute to a workers' sense of purpose. [4]
Create opportunities to grow and learn
Many workers feel they lack a sense of purpose, but they don't want to be that way either. According to a study, 60% of those workers want their employer to provide more opportunities to motivate them to find purpose in their work lives. If a worker doesn't feel that they are not improving, they will likely feel unsatisfied. An organisation should develop a culture of learning that utilises talent and skills to increase employee engagement. Employees who are actively engaged in learning are more innovative. They feel more prepared to take on challenging tasks due to feeling more competent and confident with their abilities and finding purpose. [5]
Create a positive work environment
No employee would want to work in a toxic workplace. Build a physically and mentally healthy culture in your workplace as workers who have healthy well-being are more likely to perform better at work. Promoting equality by not tolerating any harassment, supporting the holistic wellbeing of your team and acknowledging the great work they have done are great ways to have a positive work environment. An organisation that allows employees to voice their concerns or ideas and has a supportive and professional environment that balances work and personal life is vital to maintaining a powerful sense of purpose at work.
We, as humans, are made for connection and desire to have a purpose, and our work can serve us both. Work boosts self-confidence and self-esteem that improve the mental health of an individual. Being productive and valued at work makes us feel good, and the purpose we find at work, even if it is not our dream job, can help us feel a great sense of pride. [6] Having a strong sense of purpose makes work meaningful. And when people feel that the work they are doing together is of great value, they are more engaged.
If you want to know more about this subject or how to improve your team's mental wellbeing that's tailor-made to your team and progress you can test and measure, contact us today on 1300 114 818 for a private and confidential conversation email us at info@proactiveaction.co.
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