Article · 7 min · Lesson 2 of 13
By the end of this lesson you will be able to understand how tasks, thoughts, and relationships combine to create meaning at work.
You learned in the previous lesson that tasks, thoughts, and relationships create meaning at work. During this course, you will practice adjusting each of these to feel more engaged with your work. First, review the elements that you can influence in your work. These are often small, deliberate changes that don't require a new title or anyone's approval.
Tasks are the essential responsibilities of your work that need to be achieved. There typically isn't much choice in what needs to be achieved, but a healthy work environment will create the space for those doing the work to decide how to achieve it. Tasks can be adjusted because there is rarely just one way to achieve a desired outcome.
The way people think about their tasks will either sustain or deplete energy. Thinking of ways a task connects to the bigger picture or career goals can increase a sense of meaning and purpose. It is also highly motivating when work is connected to specific goals.
Of course, we can't change people, but we can change our relationships with them. We can spend more time with those that uplift us at work and less time with those that bring us down. We can also choose to change the way we interact with one another at work.
All you need is time and practice to notice change.
Job crafting is a way to take an active role in your own work and career. It works within the job you have, using the room you already have to shape it. It will also show you honestly whether a situation is workable, which is worth knowing either way.
