As an employee focused on tasks and completing already defined processes, you may feel out of sync with your core motivations at work. This misalignment can lead to frustration, decreased productivity, and even burnout.
You’re not alone.
The epidemic of dissatisfaction
According to Korn Ferry, there is an epidemic of dissatisfaction at work. They report that a recent survey found that 4 out of 5 employees say they are not thriving at work. More than half of those surveyed reported that they:
- Are struggling with stress
- Aren’t happy with their jobs
- Don’t feel their work has purpose
Just because dissatisfaction is commonplace, it does not mean you should settle for a bad situation.
People quit managers, not jobs
It’s often been said that people don’t quit jobs, they quit managers. Improving relationships between managers and their direct reports can significantly impact job satisfaction and fulfillment.
Of course, many managers can do more to improve their skills. But if you’re working for a difficult manager, waiting for your manager to improve shouldn’t stop you from taking proactive steps to improve your work experience.
Take control of your experience
Understanding your own Motivational Dimensions and the motivations of those around you can quickly shift relationships. Learning to communicate effectively with your manager can also create a more fulfilling work experience.
Here’s how to better align your work with your Motivational Dimensions and showcase your capabilities to your managers and leaders.
Understand your Motivational Dimensions
The first step is to identify your primary Motivational Dimensions. If you haven’t already, consider taking the MCode assessment to discover how you are uniquely motivated in life. This will give you insight into what truly drives you and where you find the most satisfaction in your work.
Analyze your current role
Once you understand your Motivational Dimensions, examine your current role closely. Identify tasks and responsibilities that align well with your motivations and those that don’t. This analysis will help you pinpoint areas where you can make adjustments.
Communicate your Motivations
Schedule a meeting with your manager to discuss your motivations and how they relate to your work. Be prepared to:
- Explain your primary Motivational Dimensions and how it has led to your career successes in the past
- Highlight current tasks you enjoy and at which you excel
- Suggest ways to incorporate more of these tasks into your role
- Discuss areas where you feel less motivated and present ideas for shifting these for greater fulfillment
Remember, your manager may not be familiar with MCode, so be ready to explain it in simple terms related to you.
Propose adjustments to your role
Based on your analysis and discussion, propose specific adjustments to your role that would better align with your motivations. For example:
- If you’re an Optimizer, suggest ways to streamline processes in your department
- If you’re a Relator, propose more collaborative projects or team-building initiatives
- If you’re a Learner, ask for opportunities to attend training sessions or conferences
Take initiative
Don’t wait for your manager to make all the changes. Look for ways to incorporate your motivations into your current tasks. For instance:
- If you’re an Achiever, set personal performance goals for your projects
- If you’re a Visionary, brainstorm innovative solutions to ongoing challenges
- If you’re a Driver, volunteer to lead time-sensitive projects
Regularly update your manager
Keep your manager informed about how these adjustments are impacting your work. Share successes, challenges, and any new insights you gain about your motivations. This ongoing communication will help your manager better understand your capabilities and how to leverage them effectively.
Be patient and flexible
Aligning your work with your motivations is an ongoing process. Be patient with yourself and your manager as you work together to find the right balance. Stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your approach as needed.
Seek growth opportunities
Look for opportunities within your organization that align more closely with your Motivational Dimensions. This could be through lateral moves, special projects, or even promotions. Discuss these possibilities with your manager to show your commitment to growth within the company.
Focus on results
While communicating your motivations is important, remember to always tie your requests and suggestions back to how they can benefit the team and organization. Show how working in alignment with your motivations leads to better results and increased productivity.
Consider mentorship
If your direct manager isn’t receptive to these discussions, consider seeking out a mentor within your organization who might better understand and support your growth based on your Motivational Dimensions.
Aligning work with motivation positions you for success
By taking these steps, you can create a work environment more aligned with your core motivations. This alignment leads to greater job satisfaction for you and allows your managers and leaders to see your true capabilities and utilize your strengths more effectively.
Remember, the key is open communication, initiative, and a willingness to adapt. With patience and persistence, you can create a more fulfilling work experience that benefits both you and your organization.
