A recent survey by LinkedIn found that 72% of professionals feel unfulfilled in their careers. This is often due to a disconnect between their values and their work. By aligning your work with your core values, you can transform your professional life and find greater meaning in what you do.
Here are ten steps to guide you on this journey. To help you understand these tips, we will use the example of Sarah, a graphic designer, seeking new career growth opportunities.
1. Identify Your Core Values
The first step to mastering the art of self-growth is self-discovery. What are the fundamental principles that guide your life? Do you value creativity, helping others, innovation, financial security, or a healthy work-life balance? Consider situations where you felt truly energized and fulfilled.
What values were being expressed in those experiences? Journaling, taking personality quizzes, or talking to a career counselor will help you discover your core values.
For example, Sarah, a talented graphic designer, felt increasingly stifled in her corporate role. Through self-reflection, she realized her core values included creativity, freedom of expression, and making a positive social impact.
2. Explore Careers that Reflect Your Values
Once you understand your values, research careers that align with them. If you value innovation, consider fields like engineering or entrepreneurship. If helping others is your passion, explore careers in social work, education, or healthcare.
For example, inspired by her core values, Sarah explored careers that allowed her to use her creativity for social good. She discovered opportunities in non-profit organizations and social impact design studios.
3. Research Company Culture
Do background research on every company’s culture on your list to ensure it aligns with your values. Look for companies with missions that resonate with you and a work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, or other important values.
Do some background research to get a clear company perspective before joining. Issues like harassment at work cases and court cases are red flags that require clarification from the HR team before making your final decision.
For example, Sarah researched non-profit organizations known for their innovative approaches and empowering work environments. She found a perfect fit with an organization that used design thinking to tackle environmental challenges.
4. Network with People Who Share Your Values
Surround yourself with people who share your values. Connect with other experts in the industry you are eyeing using your digital business card and join online communities. These connections will provide valuable insights, offer mentorship, and open doors to opportunities that align with your purpose.
For example, Sarah attended networking events for social impact designers and connected with professionals who shared her passion for using design for good. These connections gave her valuable career advice and led her to a job opening at her dream company.
5. Consider Volunteer Work or Side Hustles
If you’re unsure which career path aligns best with your values, consider volunteer work or starting a side hustle. This allows you to accrue valuable experience, and see if a particular field truly resonates with your values.
For example, uncertain about the day-to-day realities of non-profit design, Sarah volunteered at a local environmental organization. This experience confirmed her passion for community and volunteer work and solidified her career goals.
6. Negotiate for Work that Aligns with Your Values
Don’t hesitate to negotiate your job responsibilities or projects to ensure they align with your values. Many companies are receptive to employees who are passionate and purpose-driven. Communicate your values clearly and express your desire to contribute to projects that resonate with you.
For example, during her job interview at the non-profit, Sarah highlighted her passion for sustainability and expressed her interest in projects focused on renewable energy solutions. The company was impressed by her values-driven approach and assigned her to a project she felt truly passionate about.
7. Focus on Continuous Learning
All industries are dynamic – trends and strategies that worked a few years ago are now void. Investing in continuous learning demonstrates your commitment to growth and allows you to stay engaged in work that excites you.
Take online courses, attend workshops, or pursue additional certifications. At the event, use your digital business cards to network with other professionals.
For example, to stay at the forefront of social impact design, Sarah enrolled in an online course on using design thinking for social change. This enhanced her skillset and opened doors to new project opportunities within the company.
8. Embrace Challenges as Opportunities
No career path is without its challenges. Change your mindset to view challenges as stepping stones to the next level in your career. When faced with a difficult situation, remember your core values and use them as a guiding light to navigate challenges and find solutions that align with your purpose.
For example, during a challenging project at the non-profit, Sarah encountered resistance from stakeholders. However, she remembered her core value of collaboration and used creative communication strategies to bridge the gap and achieve a successful outcome.
9. Celebrate Your Achievements (Big and Small)
Taking the time to acknowledge your accomplishments, big or small, is essential for maintaining motivation and staying connected to your purpose. Did you complete a project that aligns with your values? Did you learn a new skill that expands your skill set?
For example, when Sarah’s design project resulted in a significant increase in donations for the non-profit’s renewable energy initiative, she took the time to celebrate this achievement with her colleagues. Recognizing her contribution not only boosted her morale but also reaffirmed the positive impact she was making through her work.
10. Practice Gratitude
A grateful mindset will significantly enhance your overall well-being and fulfillment in your career. Take time each day to reflect on the aspects of your work that you appreciate, whether it’s the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring colleagues, the chance to use your skills for a greater good, or the sense of accomplishment you feel when you overcome challenges.
For example, before leaving work each day, Sarah took a few minutes to jot down three things she was grateful for in her role. This practice helped her maintain a positive outlook and appreciate the inherent value and purpose she found in her work.
Conclusion
Aligning your career with your values is a continuous journey, not a one-time destination. By following these steps and remaining committed to your core principles and values, you can transform your work from a mere job into a source of deep satisfaction and fulfillment. Good luck!