Introducing the Career Motivation Framework

My passion for studying careers really started when I was fresh out of college and was working in retail (along with some other side hustles) and I was just so bored.

I remember writing lists on the back of receipt tape just to pass the time. I knew that I couldn’t do that forever. I dreamed about work that was flexible, autonomous, creative, involved collaboration…I knew what I valued, I just didn’t know what was possible.

Everyone is motivated to go to work for different reasons. When a job no longer fits your primary motivation, people either “quiet quit,” mentally checking out or they quit altogether. 

We all make choices in our careers because we are motivated by one of these five categories. 

Knowing which motivates you most can help you make strategic decisions in your work moving forward and ultimately lead to a more satisfying career path.

Flexibility

Whether it’s just for a season or it’s forever, you know you want a job that can work around your life. You would rather make your own schedule than have an impressive title or more money. Work is important but you have other priorities and want a job that is malleable. 

Wealth

Financial security, income, and benefits matter most to you. You want a job that makes you feel secure and maybe even change the trajectory of the next generation in your family. You can pay your mortgage, save, and you don’t have to worry about finances. 

Enjoyment

What matters most to you is that you spend time doing the work you enjoy. Whether it’s creative, data-centric, or people-focused, you love it. Titles, money, and flexibility might be nice added perks but at the end of the day your main thing is that you enjoy what you do.

Meaning

You are most passionate about the difference you are making in the world. You may be taking risks as a result, earning less, or overextending yourself, but you feel great alignment in your work and the difference it is making in the world. This is a cause you believe in. It may even be the thing you care about most in the world. 

Prestige

Do you feel a burst of pride when you get to share with someone what you do or where you work? Work may include long hours or lower pay than you want but your role is significant and your organization is special. 

Discover your career motivation by taking the quiz here. Along with your results you will get personalized tips based on your specific motivation so you can lean into what motivates you most and continue on a path toward creating a career and life you love.