What are you grateful for? For many of us, including me, the first thing that comes to mind is family. 

But what about your career – the home that is also a huge part of your life? Loving your job can make a big difference in your happiness and well-being. After all… 

People who enjoy their jobs are more likely to be optimistic, motivated, learn faster, make fewer mistakes and better business decisions. – University of Southern California (USC) Dornsife  

How to find a job you love (hint: it can be the one you already have!) 

Many professionals allow the difficult parts of their jobs or working environments to impact how they feel in general about their work. It can even lead to burnout. If this is happening to you in your current job, it’s time to flip the scales! 

Here are six ways to help you create genuine love for the work you do each day: 

1. Start by identifying what you enjoy about your job: Even in seemingly ordinary jobs, there are often elements that professionals really do find enjoyable. Start a list of things that bring you the greatest satisfaction. And then focus on these aspects of your role, whether they include problem-solving, connecting with others, or tapping into your creativity. This will give you a greater sense of purpose in the big picture of your work and life.

2. Cultivate relationships with your colleagues: Strong, positive relationships at work can enhance your job satisfaction. When was the last time you made a concerted effort to authentically connect with your coworkers? Doing this will keep you open to collaboration and mutual support.

3. Embrace new learning opportunities: Keep your curiosity alive and focus on increasing or enhancing your skills. Whether through formal training or learning on the job, continual growth can make your work more interesting and rewarding. Plus, professional development will increase your value at your organization – and in the job market!

4. Establish personal goals: Creating short-term and long-term goals can provide a sense of progress and achievement as you accomplish each goal.

5. Celebrate small wins: Speaking of those short-term goals, never wait until the end of a huge project or milestone to celebrate. Revel in small accomplishments along the way! Tell yourself, “Great job!” Take a break. Go out to dinner. Get that gadget or other personal gift you’ve been wanting. And express gratitude to team members or colleagues who participated in the win, no matter how small.

6. Maintain a positive mindset: Even when circumstances on the job are not ideal, concentrate on the positives and practice gratitude. Focusing on the good will quickly shift your perspective and get you through challenging times and experiences.

What happens when you focus on what you love about your work? 

I’ll use myself as an example. Throughout my career, I have always loved meeting new people on a day-to-day basis. I love helping others. And I am a foodie at heart. These aspects of my work bring me the most satisfaction and through them, I have grown so much in my career and personal life. 

My career began in the restaurant industry and I also explored grocery, retail, and working with people who have intellectual or developmental disabilities – but something about the hospitality industry became a part of me. While earning my bachelor’s degree, I became a food and beverage manager at a Ramada, which led to management roles for Applebee’s, Cracker Barrel, and other establishments. 

In 2016, I entered the world of talent recruitment and leveraged my experience by specializing in hospitality industry recruiting and lateral markets. Words can’t describe how much I sincerely love what I do as a senior recruiting partner and assistant trainer with Goodwin Recruiting. Everything I do today tracks with what I have always loved – meeting new people each day, helping others – and food! 

To top it all off, I’m beyond grateful to be part of such an incredible organization that is consistently recognized for being one of the best in the business. Every day, integrity in everything we do is key and a core value that I hold near to my heart. I rest my head at night with no regrets, knowing that I choose humanity by always doing right by my recruiting partners, my clients, and job candidates. 

Find out what you’re most thankful for in your profession 

If you find yourself challenged to identify what brings you the most satisfaction in your work, or if you’re asking yourself, “How can I find the right job for me?” – I encourage you to reach out to me. 

I work with a large team of amazing talent recruiting specialists and we can help you find those answers, and maybe even a new career path. Goodwin Recruiting experts are great career coaches with access to new job opportunities with leading employers. Let us help you fill your days with the things you are most grateful for in your job and profession. You may even find that talent recruiting is in your future!