Ahhh that dreaded question we all get at least once a week, "So, do you like what you do for work?"

Usually, we answer this question with one of the following.

Yes, I love it!

Ehh, it's ok but I'd rather be doing...

I don't really like what I do, but I like who I work with...

No, it sucks!

Let me pause right here and say that if your response isn't an emphatic "Yes!", that's ok.

In fact, it's more than normal as 60% of employees report feeling unhappy at work. We can touch on what to do if you're unhappy at work another time, but today I want to focus on how to tell if you're actually unhappy.

Yes, believe it or not, you may be being duped into thinking you're happy at work.

If all it takes for you to be happy is a ping-pong table and casual Friday, you're living in The Matrix and yes, ignorance is bliss.

My friend... It's time to take the red pill.

No more of the "well, the culture is good" or "at least I get to work from home" BS. Down the rabbit hole we go…

Ask yourself these 3 questions to judge whether you actually enjoy your work or not. Brace yourself. You may be surprised with the truth.

1. Do you leave right at 5pm?

The average American work day is 9am-5pm. You may be a 10-4er or maybe even an 8-9er. Whatever you are, if you are itching to leave early day in and day out, you don't like your job.

If you count the hours and minutes until you can shut your laptop, log off, and move on with your life you won't be happy. Happiness grows out of contentment, not a desire to "pack it up".

While I think the traditional "if you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life phrase" is BS, it does have some merit. Sometimes you will have an off day, and some days you may even want to quit but, if you love what you do you won't pack up early.

2. Are you challenged?

So, your job is easy, huh? Let's dig a little deeper. Is it easy because you aren't trying or is it easy because it's not challenging? Flipping burgers, while easy to some, can indeed be challenging, so before we go and judge the jobs of others let's pause and acknowledge that it’s all about perspective.

That said, if you aren't trying I can't help you. If you are trying and work is still easy, it may be time to look for something new. Challenges, while intimidating at first, are what keep us motivated and excited at the workplace. Happiness requires a healthy dose of struggle.

3. When was the last time you were praised?

Maybe it's the little kid in us who wants to be acknowledged for doing good and given positive attention for working hard. After all, there is nothing sweeter than a well-timed "atta boy".

Point blank, you should be rewarded for good work. Unfortunately, we don't live in a world where raises are flying out the window for answering emails in a timely manner and being a good teammate. Collect praise for your social capital. It will fuel your happiness.

All told, culture isn't a cheat code to neglect fulfillment, flexible work isn't an excuse to feel undervalued, and office snacks will never supersede impact.

You deserve to love your work.

Until next time,

Ben

Thanks for reading today! Whenever you're ready, there are three ways I can help you:

1. Go from “resume so-so, to resume pro” in 60 minutes
   

2. Reach out for some 1:1 Coaching
   

3. Check out my FREE resources to help in your job hunt

Found this edition of The Career Kickstarter online or got it from a friend? Subscribe below!