Career Change Clinic: How do I identify work that is meaningful, fun, and makes people happy?

Careershifter Question: "I am a telecom transmission network engineer, and I have been unhappy at work for many years. I currently find no job satisfaction working in this particular 'service' culture. I would like to do work that actually means something to people, and if I can make people happy then that’s a bonus too. I get bored very easily, how can I make my working life more fun?"

Here is my answer...

It's time to start identifying more clearly for yourself what you would like from your working life.

Define what 'meaningful', 'fun', 'variety' mean personally to you

Start by breaking down your broad ideas (having an impact on others, making people happy, fun) into more specific examples.

For example, how would you like to work for or with others in a way that is meaningful? What kind of work or offerings do you personally feel mean something to people? Perhaps you could start by looking at what means something to you. And also ask yourself, do you need feedback to know that you are making a meaningful impact?

In what ways would you like to make people happy — by carrying out tasks for them that are much needed, by entertaining them, by leading them in workshops or expeditions that will exhilarate them? Or could it be as simple as sharing a joke with your colleagues while you work?

Also you mentioned that you get bored easily. What kinds of things bring you the variety and stimulus you need? Is this changing locations, dealing with different people, carrying out different work tasks etc? What activities do hold your attention, or are activities that you keep coming back to? Look at the things you do outside of work for clues.

Define for yourself what 'fun' means to you. What would make you relish going to work? What kinds of activities or environments do you find fun? This is different for everyone, so be clear about what fun means to you. For some, 'fun' comes from interacting in a lighthearted way with their colleagues. For others, 'fun' is something you do, such being creative or taking part in outdoor activities.

Try things out

As well as looking at what you may have previously done or currently do that bring you joy, start to try things out. Visit different workplaces that might be a better match to what you would like to do, take drop-in classes in activities you would like to try, and talk to people who are working jobs you might like to do yourself. As you explore, you may discover jobs and work options you never knew existed that could be a perfect match for you. You will also become more inspired and motivated to continue with you career change as you come across people who really enjoy their work.

Do you have a career change question you would like answered? Email me at sab@careershifters.org. I will answer as many as I can and your question may be used anonymously on the site.