Ever wondered why some people stay in the same job for decades while others are constantly on the move? The secret lies in three core factors: career progression, meaningful relationships, and alignment with personal values. When these align, work becomes more than a paycheque; it becomes purpose.
Throughout my life, I’ve often asked people, “Do you know why you’re here?” Most struggled to give a clear answer. Drawing from ideas popularised by American professor and computer scientist Cal Newport, we can identify three core factors that often determine why people stay in a job: career progression, relationships, and alignment with company values. Newport’s work suggests that when fundamental needs are met, employees experience long-term job satisfaction. When all three align, they may even stay for a lifetime.
Finding Purpose Beyond Paycheques
Have you ever met someone who’s been with the same company for 20 to 30 years? Often, career progression plays a significant role. It’s not just about money or climbing the corporate ladder; while financial growth is important, it’s equally vital to find a path that aligns with unique goals and interests. For instance, someone with a business management degree might seek an industry resonating with their aspirations – whether education, entertainment, or fashion. Career progression creates purpose when aligned with personal values and interests, offering more than just a paycheque.
Building Bonds in the Workplace
People also stay for the relationships and work environment. For most of us, work is where we spend the majority of our lives. A positive environment – where we collaborate with like-minded, respectful colleagues – can make our days enjoyable and even inspiring. Good relationships at work add to satisfaction, while difficult ones often lead to reconsideration. The workplace dynamic reflects how we treat others; treat others well, and they’ll likely respond in kind. This dynamic shapes whether we stay or move on.
Aligning with Shared Values
“Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.” – Potter Stewart
Ethics and alignment with company values profoundly influence job satisfaction. A company’s ethics reflect its core values – what it deems right within its cultural and legal framework. Employees tend to stay where values align with their own. For instance, some avoid industries like tobacco or alcohol if they feel these conflict with societal health. Others steer clear of roles clashing with personal beliefs. Ethics form the foundation of who we are and shape whether we feel connected to a company’s mission.
When It’s Time for a Change
While each of these factors – career progression, relationships, and alignment with company values – can independently contribute to job satisfaction, true fulfilment often requires all three. When career goals align with personal values, relationships enrich work life, and ethics connect with the company mission, work becomes more than just a job – it becomes meaningful. If one of these needs is met, people may tolerate challenges and compromise. But when none are fulfilled, they often reach a pivotal moment to reassess their path. Recognising these elements empowers you to create a career – and a life – aligned with your deepest values and aspirations.
For some, this search for alignment leads to entrepreneurship. Whether in a traditional role or an entrepreneurial journey, the goal remains the same: finding purpose, connection, and values that resonate deeply.
Books I Recommend
If you enjoyed this content, here are some books I highly recommend for deeper insights. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support my work in providing quality recommendations. Links lead to the audiobook versions, but other formats are available on the same page.
