I Want a More Meaningful Job — But What Does That Even Mean?
If you’re reading this, you might be feeling a tug inside — a whisper (or shout!) that your current job just isn’t cutting it anymore. You want more meaning at work, but when you try to pin down exactly what that means, it feels slippery, confusing, or overwhelming.
You’re definitely not alone. Many mid-career professionals come to coaching feeling stuck in roles that pay the bills but don’t light them up. So what is a meaningful job? And how do you figure out what meaning really means for you?
Let’s unpack it.
Photo by @jordanmadrid
What Does “Meaningful” Really Mean?
Meaning is deeply personal. For some people, it’s about making a positive impact in the world. For others, it’s about creativity, autonomy, connection, or simply feeling competent and valued.
Common themes I hear from clients include:
Purpose: Feeling that their work matters beyond the paycheck
Alignment: That their values aren’t compromised by their job
Growth: Opportunities to learn, stretch, and evolve
Balance: Space to live a life that feels rich beyond work
Connection: Meaningful relationships with colleagues, clients, or community
Why “Meaningful Work” Is So Hard to Define
Meaning isn’t a fixed destination — it changes as you grow. What mattered at 25 might not matter at 45. What feels meaningful on Monday might feel exhausting by Friday.
That’s why trying to define meaning can sometimes feel frustrating or like chasing smoke.
How to Start Exploring Meaning in Your Work
Here are some practical ways to clarify what meaningful work looks like for you:
1. Reflect on Peak Moments
Think back to moments at work when you felt truly engaged, proud, or energized. What were you doing? Who were you with? What values were you honouring?
2. Identify Your Core Values
Values like honesty, creativity, community, or independence often drive meaning. List your top 5 values and see how your current job lines up.
3. Experiment and Explore
Sometimes you can’t know until you try. Look for small ways to test new roles, projects, or sectors — volunteering, freelancing, short courses — to learn what resonates.
4. Talk to Others
Conversations with people who seem to have found meaningful work can spark ideas and help you imagine new possibilities.
What if You’re Not Ready to Quit?
Meaningful work doesn’t have to mean a big leap. You can start by:
Shaping your current role to better fit your values (that’s what we Positive Psychologists call Job Crafting)
Building skills or networks that open new doors over time
Finding meaning in other parts of your life while you plan a transition
Final Thought: Meaning Is a Journey, Not a Checklist
It’s OK if your definition of meaningful work isn’t perfectly clear today. The important thing is to stay curious, compassionate with yourself, and open to change.
If you want help clarifying your meaning and designing a career that fits your evolving values and life stage, I’m here to support you.
Ready to start exploring your meaningful career?
📅 Book a free 30-minute exploratory session and let’s uncover what meaningful work means for you.
