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Self-Analysis | Career Hold (CRR)

Secrets of People Who Love Their Work

In 1992, Janis Long Harris interviewed people who said without hesitation that they love their work.  Although not a scientific researcher, vocational psychologist, or career counselor, she drew basically the same conclusions that have evolved from decades of hardcore vocational research.  Although her classic book, Secrets of People Who Love Their Work, is no longer in print, the major conclusions drawn from the interviews are outlined for you here.

People Who Love Their Work View It As A Calling

They believe that they are doing what they were born to do.  They follow their “inner voice” as well as pay attention to what other people say to them.

People Who Love Their Work Pay Attention To Models, Mentors, And Voices Of Affirmation

They listen to affirmers -- people who help confirm their calling by pointing out their natural talents and interests  They adopt role models who serve as examples to follow in shaping and pursuing their dreams.  They seek mentors who are able to advise and guide them in the pursuit of  their vocation.

People Who Love Their Work Discovered Their Gifted Passions

They have a good understanding of themselves.  Some of them pursued vocational testing in order to identify vocations that would compliment their interests and personalities.  Their work is often vocational implementation of their passions.  They pay attention to the activities that most engages their focused attention to the point that they experience a distorted sense of time.  Their activities energize them rather than wear them out.

People Who Love Their Work Receive The Kind Of Feedback That They Need

Work lovers tend to derive more satisfaction from doing their work than reflecting on results.  They are people who are able to give themselves whole-heartedly to the task at hand.

People Who Love Their Work Are Willing To Take Risks And Make Sacrifices In Pursuit Of Their Vocation

Risks may be emotional, financial, or social.  Sacrifices may include relocation and giving up a certain amount of personal time.

People Who Love Their Work Develop Competencies Associated With Their Vocation

Competence isn’t something that is innate.  It requires time and training.  Work lovers pursue the necessary education requirements for entry into their vocation and ensure ongoing competence through continuing education.

People Who Love Their Work Feel A Sense Of Community

Individuals who are focused on helping other people rather than glorifying themselves tend to feel especially happy about their vocation. They are often involved in organizations where other people may affirm their efforts and empathize with their setbacks.  Organizations may also provide a network of individuals with important employment connections.

People Who Love Their Work Feel Like They Earn Enough Money

They understand their earning potential before they enter their chosen occupation. They work for employers who pay them adequately for their work and within the range of other individuals employed in their occupation. 

People Who Love Their Work Are Employed By The “Right Place” Where They Are Able To Express Their Beliefs

They feel able to openly discuss with coworkers the issues they believe to be of utmost importance.  Work is not a place where their ideals are suppressed.  They experience a good personal fit with the organization, community, and physical environment

People Who Love Their Work Achieve Balance Between Work And Other Aspects Of Life

They are able to cultivate interests that may not be related to work.  Without balance, burnout is more likely to occur.  People who love their work have time and are in position to also pursue other interests. 

People Who Love Their Work Believe Their Work Is Important

They see their work as benefiting society by meeting a need through the expression of their talents.  People who love their work see it as worthwhile.

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