7 Little Words to Live By

"Work for a cause, not for applause."

I found this joyful nugget of wisdom today on an old friend's Facebook page. As someone who recently embarked on the always challenging/sometimes feared/endlessly rewarding job hunt, I can relate.

I've pulled two interesting conclusions from this short blip of words, and I'd like to share them with all those currently looking for a job, considering a career change, looking for "something more" at work, and whoever else wants to read.

Everyone's cause is different.

Yes, there are plenty of jobs out there.  It's true!  However, I believe every person has an inner belief set, passion, or desire that leads them (or should lead them) to work for a cause or purpose, if you will.  For some people, uncovering that cause is easy.  I've had friends and colleagues say things like "I always knew I wanted to do _______ when I was little."  Although I can agree to that with an extent, I'd say my cause is less concrete. My cause is people and helping them to be their best.  Most importantly, this isn't just my work-related cause, this is my life-related cause.  I love people and helping them succeed at work, at home, and in all other capacities. I'm sure I'll further narrow my cause as I grow older; however, I'm happy to have identified a meaningful passion.

Do what you do for you.

Simply put, do what makes your insides smile at the end of the day.  Hold a job because you love going to work, and because it feeds your family - these two should not be mutually exclusive.  Make sure that the hours you spend awake (ie...working) are spent in at least moderate satisfaction and happiness. Most importantly, awards and recognition are physical, finite things.  Respect and reverence from both yourself and from others are lasting.  The most incredible people I know have rarely won awards nor are they the most well-known figures.  The people who change the world often fly under the radar, I think, because they don't need others to approve; their internal satisfaction of fulfilling their cause is enough.  It's all about the source of motivation - internal or external.  Where does yours come from?