Research suggests that those workers who're happiest and most engaged in their jobs are clear about the purpose and meaning of what they do. Imagine if everyone in your organisation was crystal clear about the contribution they make and the ultimate goal of your business! Read on and find out how this can be made a possibility...
What can we learn from Pauline the Cleaner
by Dr. SharpAmong my many readings in the area of Positive Organisatinal Scholarship I discovered, several years ago, the story of Pauline. Now Pauline was a cleaner in a large hospital in America but despite her job mostly involving mopping and cleaning she was very happy and satisfied in her role.
Upon further investigation it became apparent that one of the reasons Pauline was so happy and engaged was that she saw herself as an integral part of the health care team. She referred, for example, to "my patients" and gave examples of doing many little things to make her patients' stay more pleasant.
What's the point of this story? The point is that Pauline saw meaning and purpose in her job that went way beyond the specifics of her job description. She was able to see the bigger picture and find something of value in what others considered menial, unskilled tasks.
And I think there's something we can all learn from this and so I encourage you to ask yourself...how do you contribute to the ultimate outcomes produced by your organisation? What does your work really mean (to you and to others)? In what way are you contributing to the improvement of other people's lives?
Being more aware of the answers to these questions, and remembering them on a daily basis, will lead to more happiness at work and accordingly...more focus, more energy and more satisfaction. And wouldn't we all like more of that?
Dr. Timothy Sharp
Looking for true career fulfilment and happiness with a well balanced approach to work and play? Our business coaches operate their own coaching practice under The Happiness Institute business services franchise banner. They are solution focused people who value relationships, who provide outstanding customer service, who love creating change and helping people and organsiations to flourish.8-Sep-2008