What are the most common answers I get when I ask people what they’re looking for at work?

More joy. More happiness. More fulfillment.

Notice I didn’t say more money (although that’s good too). You see, when it comes to money, research shows that it’s not a reason people stay. It’s can definitely be a reason someone leaves a job or company, but it’s really not a motivator. Truth.

The real motivation to do excellent work comes from inside. It’s about how your work makes you feel and how it helps other people be better. That’s really where the career magic happens.

We all know that a bad day (or several) doesn’t end when you leave the office. We bring that *ish home with us. Well, the same thing happens when you feel good at work. You’re healthier and happier. Your family sees it. And you want to do more.

So, it only serves you to build your muscle around being joyful in your career.

Here are 10 ways you can do just that…

One Get clear on what you do really, really well…and do more of that. Want to accelerate your performance? Focus on strengthening your most natural talents instead of developing your weaknesses.

Two  Find out what matters most to your boss & make that matter to you too. The relationship with your boss is one of the most critical. Be curious about what’s important to that person and make it your job to help her be successful.

Three  Choose a company aligned with your core values. Your work is an extension of your life. You want your work environment to feel like it fits exactly who you are.

Four Make career moves. You are dynamic and ever changing, your career should grow with you.

Five  Learn something new. It’s human nature to want to learn more. Follow that desire and always work on projects that feel a little out of reach.

Six  Find fulfillment outside of work. Don’t make your job the only place where you have fun and find joy. Let your career fuel your life.

Seven  Get an advocate. We all need someone who’s invested in our growth and will be a champion of our development. Get someone in your corner.

Eight Build your internal network. Work gets done through people. Relationships matter. Invest in yours.

Nine  Plan for the next job. Let everything you do today build your cred for the job you want to step into tomorrow.

Ten  Celebrate your work. Be proud of your creations, results, and accomplishments. Share it with people and shine.

What would you add to this list? Comment below and let’s share even more strategies.

And I know sometimes we fall into a professional rut. Whenever that happens, dust off this checklist and assess where you need a boost.

Whatever you choose to do, make sure that you have a plan and the support structure to help you bring the joy at work. It matters.

To your success,

Cindy Harvey is a Career Strategy Coach and Founder of Amelia Dee, a career strategy company for women. Cindy helps corporate career women learn how to make the next phase of their careers the most fulfilling version they’ve ever had.

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