And it is right in front of you.
Consider these two sets of needs and questions:
Set A: If you are like most human beings, you prioritize your search for meaning. You want answers:
- What am I here for?
- Is all this craziness worth it?
- Should I be doing something else?
Set B: Meanwhile, your company (likely) is desperate for innovation or continuous improvement. They, too, want answers:
- How do we evolve and remain relevant?
- Is the value we’re delivering worth the investment?
- What else should we be considering to differentiate us?
The similarities between these two sets of needs and questions are clear – to a few people. The leaders who have an energized work forces understand the relationship between these two dynamics.
- When an employee feels as though their work has meaning, they do more meaningful work.
- When a teammate gains intrinsic value from their labor, they do more value-added work.
Does the relationship between the questions in set A and B energize you? (It does me.)
It is invigorating knowing that – increasingly – the businesses that are getting what they want are creating a work experience where employees are doing what they want. These organizations are led by people who are consistently asking their teams this question: How do we connect set A to set B?
For those who have been waiting to make a greater difference in the world while they work: This is what you’ve been waiting for.