1. the skateboard edition.
'This Is Meaningful Work' is a step by step guide to designing a more meaningful career.

1. the skateboard edition.

We spend a lot of time at work, and the research* shows that employees, particularly those in the younger generations, are increasingly looking for employers that put an emphasis on mission, purpose, and values.

*for example, the most recent Deloitte Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey (Deloitte 2023: 7).

There is plenty for organisations to think about in this area, in terms of policy, advocacy, strategy, communications, employee engagement, and employee value proposition - to name just a few. The concept and application of meaningful work is an essential part of the now - and the future - that organisations and employers need to adapt to.

There is also plenty for individuals to think about on this topic. I've long been interested in career development; reading the books, listening to the podcasts...but the topic that fascinates me the most? How we find meaning in the work that we do every day, and how we can find more of it.

What is meaningful work?

'For many workers, it describes a job where they feel fulfilled and valuable - where their day-to-day efforts are both appreciated and connected to something that transcends their personal interests'.

(Daniel Goleman for Korn Ferry: 'What is meaningful work, anyways?')

I want to look at different aspects of what makes careers more meaningful - and how organisations can contribute - in each edition of this newsletter, through:

  • research and resources
  • career things I've been puzzling over
  • everyday examples from the world of work
  • ...and a few practical exercises for you!


Career puzzles

One of the things I've been reflecting on is how to re-frame the 'five year plan'.


Reading corner

Book cover lying on a green blanket, with the title 'The Nordic Theory of Everything' on a background of mountains, sea, and land with a small house on it.

  • The Nordic Theory of Everything: In Search of a Better Life ( Anu Partanen )
  • The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World ( Dorie Clark )


A note on skateboards

You may have noticed this edition is called 'the skateboard edition'. When we are all working on our projects and initiatives in my current team, this is a little reminder that not every output has to be perfect first time. Build the skateboard, then build from there. So the same applies to my efforts to write more!

If you have any feedback on this first edition, I would love to hear from you.


Further reading:

Anu Partanen: The Nordic Theory of Everything: In Search of a Better Life

Deloitte Global 2023 Gen Z and Millennial Survey

Daniel Goleman for Korn Ferry: 'What is meaningful work, anyways?'

Dorie Clark: 'The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World

Nadia Al Yafai

Director, Responsible Business

1 年

Fantastic first edition Rachel! I'm subscribed... I love the content you share... surely all work should be meaningful in a thriving and just society... it's what we all need to grow and make a difference... looking forward to hear how you define, understand and share insight about this.

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