Raise your hand if you love your job.
I ask this of an audience whenever I’m presenting at a conference or PD day. So far, in every decent-sized audience I’ve encountered, there are always people who do.
Are you one of them? Did your hand go up? Do you love your job?
This notion that human beings should aspire to loving their work, isn’t new – it’s been ingrained in our culture for years. You’ve probably heard motivational speakers at conferences who propose that each of us should, “Follow your passion”, often followed by the old phrase (cliche?) that, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
I’m also reading a related book called, “Work Won’t Love You Back”, by Sarah Jaffe. That’s me in the photo, the guy with the hammily-acted quizzical look. Jaffe argues that devotion to our jobs (i.e. for those who do love their work) is a bad thing, leading to people being exploited by employers, overworked, underpaid, exhausted, and feeling lonely. Hence with her feet firmly planted in the opposing camp to our always-grinning motivational speakers: we should definitely NOT love our jobs.
Although Jaffe’s insights resonate with many, especially in today’s climate, I’m finding her perspective overly bleak. But her opinions aren’t unusual. In recent years, trends like Quiet Quitting (where employees do the bare minimum), the Great Resignation (post-Covid), Act Your Wage, Lying Flat (originating in China), Presenteeism, Resenteeism (we do love an ism), and the Antiwork Movement have all gained traction, as workers push back against the pressure to be overly devoted to their jobs.
Your thoughts? Where do you stand?
For me, my tent isn’t pitched in the Love Your Job camp. But neither will you find it in the Work Sucks camp. I do, however, feel that the pushback against work may have swung too far. Instead of treating work as something to endure, there’s value in finding elements of satisfaction and purpose in what you do, even if it isn’t always fulfilling in every moment. My core belief?
👉 Work should be enjoyable
Love it? Nope – absolutely not a requirement. Though a huge bonus if you do. At the very least? Tolerable.
I also believe this: good management can make a world of difference. One of the key aspects that Jaffe’s book touches on is the relationship between employees and employers. While her book paints a picture of exploitation in many industries, it overlooks how much of an impact a thoughtful and supportive manager can have. After all, a good manager doesn’t just assign tasks – they help shape a positive work culture, offer guidance, give constructive feedback, and help employees feel appreciated. Be that manager – the world of work needs you.
Do I love my job? No. But I do enjoy it. And that, for me, is enough.
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📞 Need help fostering a positive work environment or guiding your team towards more meaningful work? Let’s chat – I’m here to help.
