Jobs that focus heavily on extrinsic rewards (status, image, salary alone) can be appealing in the short term but may not bring long-term fulfillment.
Are You Chasing the Right Job Goals?
When searching for a job, it’s easy to focus on external rewards—salary, job title, company prestige. But research suggests that the type of goals we prioritize can significantly impact our long-term job satisfaction and well-being.
A major meta-analysis found that individuals who focus on intrinsic goals (personal growth, meaningful relationships, community impact, and well-being) tend to have higher overall life satisfaction than those who prioritize extrinsic goals (money, status, and image). This insight is just as relevant to job seekers as it is to parents raising children. The way we approach our careers—whether chasing fulfillment or prestige—can make all the difference in long-term success and happiness.
So, if you’re on the job hunt, consider this: Are you looking for a job that aligns with your values, or are you settling for something that just “looks good on paper”?
Key Takeaways for Job Seekers
1. Choose a Career That Aligns with Your Core Values
- Research shows that people who focus on intrinsic aspirations—like personal development and community contribution—tend to find more long-term job satisfaction than those chasing money alone.
- Ask yourself: What type of work makes me feel energized and engaged? Instead of just a paycheck, think about how the job fits into your bigger picture.
2. Beware of the External Reward Trap
- Jobs that focus heavily on extrinsic rewards (status, image, salary alone) can be appealing in the short term but may not bring long-term fulfillment.
- If your motivation is solely based on how impressive a role looks to others, you may find yourself feeling unfulfilled once the novelty wears off.
3. Work Environments Matter as Much as Job Titles
- The meta-analysis found that supportive environments play a key role in shaping aspirations. In the workplace, this translates to company culture—do you feel valued, encouraged, and supported?
- Job seekers should research not just the salary and title but also the work culture: Does the company encourage growth? Do employees feel valued beyond just their performance?
4. Don’t Let Stress Dictate Your Career Choices
- Just as parental stress can shape children’s goals, job seekers under financial or emotional stress might be tempted to accept any job offer—even if it doesn’t align with their skills or long-term aspirations.
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back. Are you applying out of panic, or is this role a real opportunity for growth?
5. Redefine Success for Yourself
- Success doesn’t have to mean the highest salary or the most prestigious title. It can also mean finding work that challenges you, supports you, and aligns with your personal values.
- Take time to identify what success looks like for you, rather than letting external expectations dictate your job choices.
Conclusion: Make Your Job Search Work for You
The research is clear: A job that aligns with your intrinsic values will likely lead to greater satisfaction and long-term success. While salary and benefits are important, they shouldn’t be the only factors driving your job decisions. Look for opportunities that foster growth, encourage meaningful work, and align with your long-term aspirations—not just ones that look impressive to others.
As you navigate the job market, remember that you have more control than you think over the kind of work that fulfills you. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, switching industries, or climbing the career ladder, focusing on what truly matters to you will lead to a career that’s both successful and satisfying.
Reference:
Ferber, K. A., Bradshaw, E. L., Noetel, M., Wong, T. Y., Ahn, J. S., Parker, P. D., & Ryan, R. M. (2024). Does the Apple Fall Far From the Tree? A Meta-Analysis Linking Parental Factors to Children’s Intrinsic and Extrinsic Goals. Psychological Bulletin, 150(10), 1155–1177. https://doi.org/10.1037/bul0000448
Written by Lisa J Meier with image support from ChatGPT