The Power of Meaning: Why Purpose in Work Matters More Than Ever
Why Does Meaning in Work Matter?
In today’s fast-paced, results-driven world, work can sometimes feel like a grind—a series of tasks to complete, deadlines to meet, and expectations to manage. But beneath the surface of daily responsibilities lies a deeper question:
🔍 Why do we do what we do?
🔍 What is the meaning behind our work?
I struggled with this for years. I started and exited several companies, many of them in commerce technology. Initially, my career felt like something I had stumbled into. After earning a political science degree, I realized I didn’t want to be a lawyer and found myself searching for direction. Since I had taken several computer science courses, I decided to give technology a shot.
Over time, I discovered that my passion wasn’t tied to any single company’s activities but rather to building great organizations that support people, partners, and clients. I created my own sense of meaning by aligning my work with my core values—cultivating ethical business environments while pursuing my passion for human consciousness and self-discovery.
The Science of Meaningful Work and Workplace Fulfillment
Viktor Frankl, in his seminal book Man’s Search for Meaning, wrote:
"Those who have a ‘why’ to live can bear almost any ‘how.’"
As a survivor of Auschwitz and a psychiatrist, Frankl discovered that meaning is the most critical factor in survival and psychological resilience.
His insights are just as relevant in today’s workplace. Research consistently shows that employees who find purpose in their work perform better, stay longer, and experience greater well-being.
Key Findings:
According to McKinsey & Company, 70% of employees say their sense of purpose is largely defined by their work.
A SHRM study found that employees who see their work as meaningful are 69% less likely to quit their jobs within six months and are three times more satisfied overall.
Purpose-driven companies don’t just benefit their employees—they experience 30% higher levels of innovation and 40% higher employee retention (Deloitte).
In short, meaning in work isn’t a “nice-to-have”—it’s a business imperative.
How to Define Meaning in Work
So, what exactly does it mean to have meaningful work? While meaning is personal, research has identified common themes:
✅ Alignment with Personal Values – People feel most fulfilled when their work reflects their core beliefs.
✅ Contribution to Something Greater – Employees who see the impact of their work—on colleagues, customers, or society—derive greater meaning from it.
✅ Growth and Development – Opportunities to learn, grow, and overcome challenges enhance a sense of purpose.
✅ Autonomy and Mastery – Having control over one’s work and developing expertise contributes to workplace fulfillment.
How AI is Changing the Future of Work and Purpose
As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, the nature of work is shifting. Tasks that once required human effort—data analysis, administrative work, and even creative problem-solving—are increasingly being automated.
But AI isn’t here to replace human purpose—it’s here to amplify it.
🔹 AI handles routine tasks, allowing individuals to focus on uniquely human traits—creativity, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven leadership.
🔹 With AI taking over mundane tasks, people must cultivate insight, strategic thinking, empathy, and innovation to remain indispensable.
🔹 Leaders who foster environments that encourage creativity, self-expression, and purpose-driven leadership will drive the most engaged, motivated teams in an AI-driven world.
How Leaders Can Cultivate Purpose-Driven Leadership in the Workplace
As an executive business coach with 30 years of experience running companies, I’ve seen firsthand how organizations thrive when they create a culture of meaningful work. Here are some key strategies leaders can implement:
🚀 The 10% Rule – Set aside 10% of your time to work on yourself or on the business. In high-stress environments, it’s easy to get caught up in daily tasks. The 10% rule allows you to take a step back, assess your business, and make intentional adjustments for long-term success.
🔍 Clarify the “Why” – Ensure that employees understand how their work connects to the larger mission of the company.
🧠 Encourage Personal Reflection – Help employees identify what matters most by discussing values, strengths, and aspirations.
🌟 Create Opportunities for Impact – Give employees chances to work on meaningful projects that align with their passions.
🎉 Recognize and Appreciate Contributions – A simple “thank you” or public recognition reinforces the value of someone’s work.
📚 Promote a Growth Mindset – Encourage continuous learning and professional development, helping employees advance in their careers.
The Intersection of Meaning, Leadership, and Psychedelic Integration
Beyond traditional business coaching, I am deeply interested in how consciousness and self-awareness influence leadership. Emerging research suggests that visionary experiences—including psychedelic-assisted insights—can enhance creativity, emotional intelligence, and a sense of interconnectedness—all essential for purpose-driven leadership.
While psychedelics are just one path to self-discovery, the principle behind their impact is universal: leaders who cultivate vision, self-awareness, and meaning are better equipped to inspire and lead others.
A Call to Action: Redefining Work with Purpose
If you’re feeling unfulfilled in your work, take a moment to reflect:
✅ What aspects of my work bring me the most joy?
✅ How does my work contribute to something larger than myself?
✅ What changes could I make to align my career more closely with my values?
Similarly, if you’re a leader, consider how you can infuse more meaning into your organization’s culture. Small changes—like fostering open dialogue about purpose, recognizing meaningful contributions, or creating opportunities for employees to grow—can have a profound impact on engagement and satisfaction.
As Viktor Frankl taught us, meaning isn’t something we stumble upon—it’s something we cultivate. By integrating purpose-driven leadership into the workplace, we can create environments where people don’t just work to make a living, but to make a life.
Final Thoughts
Each life journey is individual and unique. You are unique. In the history of the universe, no one has ever lived exactly like you, and no one ever will.
As the Grateful Dead wrote in Ripple:
"There is a road, no simple highway
Between the dawn and the dark of night
And if you go, no one may follow
That path is for your steps alone."
Let’s redefine success—not just in terms of profits or promotions, but in terms of meaning, fulfillment, and impact. Because when we work with purpose, we don’t just change our own lives—we change the world around us.
How Do You Define Purpose in Your Work?
I’d love to hear your insights.
This article was originally published on LinkedIn.