Career & Finance Fridays

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” ― Confucius

Choosing a career that you love is an important part of living a fulfilling life. And while a good salary and benefits may be high on everyone’s wish list, many factors determine whether or not you’ll cherish your job.In this article, we explain why it's important to feel passionate about your job and share 10 common reasons why people love their jobs so you can find a job you love too.

Why it's important to love your job

When you love what you do, you tend to feel a sense of purpose and belonging. Whether it’s because your company's values align with your own or you feel valued for your contributions, your working hours tend to pass by faster and you can often leave the office feeling upbeat at the end of each workday when you love your job. While every day may not be amazing, a job you genuinely love will help you maintain a positive attitude on even the most challenging days.Related: How To Find a Job You Will Love: 7 Proven Tips That Work

10 reasons why people say "I love my job"

Here are some common reasons why people love their jobs:

1. Flexibility

A great employer understands that you have other things to take care of outside of work. By having a flexible start and end time, you can more easily make time for appointments, family obligations and personal matters. While a flexible schedule isn't possible for every type of career, you may want to consider going into a career that gives you more freedom.Related: How To Find the Best Jobs for You

2. Work-life balance

People also tend to love a job that’s easy to balance with their personal life. When you have the ability to unplug from work, you get a chance to recharge and unwind. Professionals who are always checking their email or answering phone calls on their personal time tend to experience burnout. When you have the chance to spend time with family and friends and pursue hobbies, you’ll feel ready to face a new workday.Related: Top 25 Jobs for Work-Life Balance
 

3. Company culture

Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, finding a work environment where you feel comfortable is key. When employers facilitate camaraderie through team-building activities and after-work events, they can help sociable coworkers build better relationships. Likewise, if you're introverted, you may prefer a company that gives you space to independently get your work done. Before choosing a job, consider what work environment will best suit your personality.Related: How To Find Your Passion for a More Fulfilling Career

4. Great expectations

Employees can only get so much work done in a day, and a good employer or manager understands this. When you have a clear understanding of what you need to accomplish, you can enjoy a less stressful work environment. Having consistent expectations is also important, and good companies will outline what they expect of each employee.Related: 28 Quotes About Loving Your Job

5. Goal-oriented leadership

Leaders who encourage you to succeed may help you love your job. When you have specific goals, you tend to feel more driven and focused on your work. By having an employer who gives you the tools to reach your goals, you can soar to new heights in your career. Few things feel as good as reaching a goal you have been working toward accomplishing.Related: What Is Achievement-Oriented Leadership? (Plus Benefits)
 

6. Fair pay

When you are fairly compensated for your work, you will feel valued by your employer. Good employers understand the importance of giving their employees regular raises and, if applicable, bonuses. They know that when an employee takes on more responsibility, they deserve to be compensated.Related: 100 High-Paying Careers To Consider (With Average Salaries)
 

7. Quality benefits

Along with your base salary, getting good benefits is an important part of loving your career. Having full healthcare, dental, vision and disability coverage is majorly important. When your employer covers these things, they are significantly decreasing your monthly expenses. Having paid holidays, sick days and personal days is also a crucial part of feeling happy with work. Your employer should understand that you need paid time away every so often.Employers may offer additional perks, such as 401(k) matching, stock options, free lunches and gym stipends. Not all positions offer all benefits so it’s a good idea to learn the kind of common benefits you could find through your employer.Related: Top 10 Best Company Benefits To Look for in a New Job

8. Open-door policy

Working in an environment where you can freely share your ideas is a great feeling. When you feel like your employer hears and sees you, you feel valued.For this reason, getting feedback is an important part of loving your job. While praise is motivating, constructive criticism can also help you improve and advance in your career. Having a clear understanding of how you're performing at work is a good feeling. A major part of loving your job is being able to predict how your manager feels about your performance.Related: How To Choose the Career Path That's Right for You

9. Room to grow

Nobody loves hitting a glass ceiling. When your employer invests in your future by reimbursing you for education, sending you to conferences or offering mentorship, you’ll feel groomed for the next level. When you see a future with your company, you may feel more driven in your role.Related: 7 Tips for Growing Within a Company

10. Challenging work

Finding work that interests and challenges you is an important part of loving your job. When you do the same tasks day after day, you may feel like you are ready for something new. When you get a variety of tasks and responsibilities that teach you something new, you may feel more engaged and fulfilled.Related: 20 of the Most Rewarding Careers

Employment & Career

What stage of career clarity do you think you are currently in, or what stage do you find most challenging?