TLDR;
The key to happiness at work lies not in worldly success like money and power, but in "earned success" and "service to others." Earned success involves creating value and being recognized for it, while service to others means feeling that your job makes a difference in other people's lives. Even simple acts of service can increase job satisfaction, as people are inherently wired to serve others. When work combines earned success, service, and personal strengths, it becomes a source of genuine joy.
- Worldly success doesn't equal happiness at work.
- Earned success and service to others are key.
- Even small acts of service can boost job satisfaction.
The Mistake About Work and Happiness [0:16]
The common mistake is believing that worldly success (money, power, admiration) automatically leads to happiness. While a sufficient income is necessary, it only eliminates unhappiness, not create happiness. True happiness from work comes from earned success and service to others.
Earned Success [0:58]
Earned success is the opposite of learned helplessness, where one feels their actions don't matter. It involves creating value through work, being acknowledged, and recognized for it. Managers play a crucial role in helping others achieve earned success by recognizing their contributions. Meritocracy is essential for people to experience joy in their work.
Service to Others [1:50]
Feeling that your job matters to others and lightens their load is crucial for workplace joy. The specific job doesn't matter as much as the feeling of service. Even simple acts like getting coffee for colleagues can increase job satisfaction because people are inherently made to serve others.
The Formula for Joy at Work [2:27]
To build your work into something meaningful, focus on earning success, being recognized for it, and serving others. When combined with utilizing your strengths, work becomes a guaranteed source of joy.