A Thought to Ponder 💡
Most of us spend more time working than doing anything else. If we’re being honest, most people wouldn’t choose work if given the option. But since we have to, shouldn’t it at least be something we can better tolerate—or even enjoy—rather than just survive?
Have you ever caught yourself saying:
🔶 “I just need to get through this week.”
🔶 “If I can just make it to Friday, I’ll be okay.”
🔶 “It’s not great, but it’s a paycheck.”
At what point did work become something we endure rather than something that feels even remotely worth showing up for?
The Story 📖
A while back, I saw this quote:"It’s not just the lucky few who should be able to say, ‘I love my job.’ Fulfillment is a right, not a privilege." — Simon Sinek
And while I love the sentiment, I don’t think it’s entirely true.
Because here’s the reality:
✔ Work is not a right, and neither is fulfillment.
✔ How work feels—whether it drains us or sustains us—is shaped by leadership, culture, and environment.
Over the years, I’ve worked with small business owners, leaders, and teams who are trying to build workplaces where people feel valued. I’ve also seen what happens when companies treat employees like they’re disposable.
And here’s what I know:
✔ When employees don’t feel valued, it shows.
✔ When leaders treat people like a number, turnover skyrockets.
✔ When work is only about transactions, people mentally check out.
We may not always love our jobs, but the difference between surviving and tolerating work versus actually finding some level of fulfillment isn’t just about perks or salaries.
It’s about how people feel when they show up.
When employees don’t feel valued, it shows.
When leaders treat people like a number, turnover skyrockets.
When work is only about transactions, people mentally check out.
We may not always love our jobs. But the difference between surviving and tolerating work versus actually finding some level of fulfillment in it isn’t just about perks or salaries—it’s about how people feel when they show up.
Rooted in Reality: What Creates a Workplace That Doesn’t Feel Like Survival Mode?
1. Work shouldn’t feel like a never-ending fire drill.Constant chaos, unclear expectations, and leaders who can’t make a decision? That’s survival mode. Work becomes tolerable when there’s at least clarity, trust, and consistency.
2. Feeling valued is more than just a paycheck.A paycheck is expected. But feeling seen, heard, and appreciated is what makes the difference between someone sticking around or mentally checking out.
3. Leadership determines culture more than free snacks ever will.A great benefits package won’t fix a toxic culture. Leadership sets the tone. If leaders aren’t investing in their people, their people won’t invest in them.
One Small Shift That Changes Everything
Instead of just pushing through the workweek, ask yourself (or your team):
✔ What’s one thing that would make work feel less like survival mode?
✔ What’s one way leadership could make things better?
✔ What’s something small that helps you get through the day?
According to Gallup, teams with high engagement see 21% higher profitability and 59% lower turnover. Investing in how people feel at work isn’t just good for morale—it’s good for business.
Join the Conversation!
📩 What makes work feel worthwhile to you?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your take.
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