The Importance Of Being Aligned With Your Work

I have seen many examples of people who are aligned with what they do (and of those who are not aligned). It makes a huge difference in the way work is accomplished as well as how it impacts those we work and interact with.

When I say, “being aligned to your work,” I mean being connected to something meaningful to you; something that aligns with your values and allows you to fulfill your desire to make a difference through your work. I coach many leaders who sometimes struggle in their roles and have behaviors that need to change.

We all have areas to grow and develop, but if the developmental opportunity is not aligned with something that is meaningful to you or gives your work purpose, you will likely struggle to develop in that area. If you lead from a place that is aligned to your values, leading becomes very easy. In fact, people will want to follow you because they see how connected you are to what you are doing. Not only that, but doing your job also becomes very easy when you are aligned in this manner.

To find out if you are aligned with what you do, take some time to think about your values and motivators. What do you value? Does your work allow you to focus on what you value? What motivates you to get up in the morning? Does your work motivate you to get up in the morning? If you answer “no” to these questions too many times in a row, you may want to reconsider what it is you are doing for work, or look to discover how you can shift what you are doing in small ways so it is more aligned with your values and motivators.

I think we intuitively know when we are around people who are united with their purpose and whose work represents that purpose. They are calm, confident, happy, serene, energized, and inspiring. Think about some public figures like Oprah Winfrey or Olympic Athletes like Shaun White. These individuals exude confidence and passion in all they do and things flow for them. Why? Because they are doing work that honors their values and work that motivates them.

I see this behavior in my pet sitter and the vet technicians at my veterinarians’ office. These people love being around and helping animals so much that animals love to be around them (and people do, too)! So, I recommend the same for you: do what you love, what you value, and what motivates you. It will make all the difference for you and those who will have the pleasure of being in your presence.