I have been talking to a lot of new people lately.
Liberate is hiring for a few roles, so I spend the majority of my days interviewing tens of candidates.
A question I always ask is “What are your personal and professional goals? What are you looking for from your next role?”
I have to tell you, the answers astound me.
Candidates don’t share their goal to be a CMO, to make millions or to work from home.
The direct quote is “I want to find a job that makes me happy and has a purpose. I want to work for a company that is making a difference.”
Of course, I’m thrilled with this answer because that is exactly what we’re all about at Liberate! Still though, I wonder how bad things must have gotten for people to really be aware of this need and be willing to vocalize it and act on it – to prioritize their happiness above all else.
I have a theory that when we’re falling, when things are going downhill, we often don’t realize it until we’ve hit the floor. All of a sudden we’re laying on our backs staring up at the ceiling and wondering ‘how the heck did I get here’?!
Another good friend of mine told me “I am miserable at work”. They chose to go down the path of entrepreneurship, something that is known for being quite a grueling journey. Usually, it’s only worth it when you’re working toward a Just Cause and feel deeply connected to and fulfilled by the mission. Think back to when I said mainstreaming mental fitness was my “purpose on earth” on Shark Tank – it’s that level of passion.
So my question is, how do you know when you’re falling?
How do you know you’re unhappy before you are really unhappy?
What lights you up and makes you feel like you’re making a meaningful difference?
My opinion is that self-reflection and practices like journaling, meditation and stillness give you space to truly check in with yourself and gain a better understanding of your wants and needs.
If you’re unhappy, you’re not alone. If you’re looking for more purpose at work, you’re definitely not alone.
My push to you is to check in with yourself and ask yourself honestly, how are you doing? What do you want out of your job? How do you want to spend your day-to-day life?
Listen to your response. And let me know! 🙂
Resources:
- Vision Board Workshop
- Awareness Meditation
- How to make work a better place
With love and light,
Liv