As I opened up the computer to compose my January message, I was having difficulty deciding on a topic that might interest some of you. I decided to open up some of my ancient AT&T papers on career management and what popped up was an article on job satisfaction myths. This topic seemed an appropriate way to greet the New Year. I will share with you what I learned and hope that it gives you a different perspective on job satisfaction.

Myth #1: There is a perfect job for me.

There is no perfect job. Jobs have descriptions, but we each bring definition and meaning to our jobs. We perfect the job as we fulfill our intrinsic needs in regards to respect, responsibility and recognition.

Myth #2: Some jobs are more important than others.

Status is only in the mind of the thinker. Our job is important because we put a piece of ourselves into it. If we care about ourselves and care about our work, then no one can do their job like we can. We impart dignity and self-respect to the job.

Myth #3: I must make myself fit the job.

Individuals who accept themselves and their self-worth tend to be creative problem-solvers. They tend to look for ways to make situations and circumstances work in their favor. They make the job work for them rather than trying to fit the job. These folks also tend to move up the ladder.

Myth#4: Jobs should have meaning and purpose.

Jobs have meaning and purpose only to the extent that we give them meaning and purpose. We do this by knowing our deep values, beliefs and purpose for living. As we figure out the big picture of these elements, we can put our job into perspective to help us make the job work for us instead of working for the job.

Myth #5: A job should help me feel better about myself and raise my self-esteem.

A job will not put something inside of you that you don’t already have. A job can enhance your feelings about yourself but can not give you worth when circumstances try to pull you down. That strength comes from you not the job.

Myth #6: A job should provide a challenge.

We must create our opportunities to be challenged, especially after we have settled in our job and begin to feel secure and comfortable about how we perform it.

Myth #7: It is hard to work for a difficult boss.

Remember the work is not hard but the interpersonal relationship with your boss is what is difficult. When we are working for difficult people, it will help to distinguish between the work and the difficult person. Staying centered on the goals of the task will help to get you through those times.

Myth #8: You may be stuck doing a job for the rest of your working life.

That is highly unlikely unless you make that choice. Keep gaining new skills and take advantage of opportunities to put on your resume. Get yourself on some MLA committees!

Myth #9: I must be outstanding on my job.

Our work may not showcase our skills and abilities. That is okay as long as you do the best you can with your job assignment. Look for other opportunities outside your job assignment to let your talents and skills shine.

Myth #10: I should be further along in my job than I am now.

If further along means more promotions and salary increases, then you may be in for a surprise as folks are staying longer in their jobs and salary increases are not as large or as frequent. It is not healthy to measure our sense of worth and value by our job titles and the size of income that we earn. Our definition of job satisfaction must be within our control and within our reach. Keeping our personal needs and longings can help balance any unrealistic myths we might have about job satisfaction.

I hope that 2006 brings each of you peace and contentment in your job, good health and many blessings! Regards, Diane

Portions Copyright © 1991 by Joanne Bodner and Venda Raye-Johnson from Staying Up When Your Job Pulls You Down.