Let’s be fair. The concept of having a career purpose is not a new one. It began with Frank Parsons, “the father of vocational guidance on career development” according to Debra Barrett of Michigan State University.
In his book, “Choosing A Vocation”, published in 1909, Mr. Parsons “developed a framework to help individuals decide on a career”, D. Barrett.
Today, many people have taken this concept and developed it into a fully planned roadmap for career success and fulfillment.
But what exactly does having a career purpose mean?
In this article, we will discuss the meaning and benefits of career purpose, and determine what the hype is all about.
What does career purpose mean?
Contrary to what many people believe, your career purpose is not based on what you studied in school, or what degree(s) you have received. In fact, there is no studying involved when developing a career purpose.
Career purpose derives from your life experiences, core values, and the purpose you see for your life. Monetary increases and career advancement are merely gauges of professional accomplishments.
It is, however, related to how you “feel” about the work you are doing. More importantly, it represents how you want to feel about yourself and the work that you do.
Personally, I believe that the discussions around career purpose resurfaced from the pandemic and industry-wide job losses around the world over the past couple of years.
Not only did it shine a light on the stressors, feelings of being overwhelmed, and our own mortality, but it reminded us of what is truly important.
With the increase in job growth over the past year, and many people returning to work, the focus on having a career with purpose is a fundamental item on the checklist for meaningful employment.
How do you determine your career purpose?
Again, your career purpose is not solely based on higher education and degrees. Instead, it is combined with your personal experiences. These are the experiences that have shaped what you value in life and what you are passionate about.
Combined, your learning and experiences help to develop your strengths.
Once you know your strengths, you can decide how you are going to use them not only for financial gain, but in how you want to be remembered by the world.
Ask yourself these questions:
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Do I want to make money to live more comfortably, or so I can give back to my community?
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Would achieving a certain career status make me feel successful, or would it allow me to help more people?
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Is the type of work that I am currently doing fulfilling?
There are no right or wrong answers. However, you will have to dig deep to determine what is truly important to you. Take the time to reflect on these questions.
You can also make a list of all of the things you are passionate about or take a free career assessment. Then ask yourself if your current career match your passions.
Do you really need a career purpose?
Having a career purpose simply means doing something that is not only financially rewarding, but meaningful to you. It stems from your passions, and puts dollars behind doing what you love to do.
Now, with today’s economy, you just want to pay the bills and live comfortably. I get it!
However, having a career purpose can lead to higher advancement within a company, being recognized faster for the work you do, and making significant contributions that you can be proud of. And yes, more money! 💰
You will not develop a career purpose overnight. It can take years to even understand what you are passionate about. Be patient with the process.
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