Lacking Joy in Your Work? Then This One Element Is Missing.

The other day, I was reminded again that life is a vector, requiring both force and direction.

For many of us, the force element comes easy — working hard, putting in long hours, week in, week out. But for many this is oftentimes experienced without the commensurate feeling of joy.

That’s a signal that the direction element is missing or is unclear, leading to an abundance of, often, unfocused heroic effort that is un- or under-appreciated, and doesn’t always make the intended impact, fuelling burnouts.

To recalibrate or clarify your direction, return to who your project, team, or organisation exists for in the first place and what you stand for — what “wrong” do you right for them in a way no-one else can or does?

When you are clear on your (shared) direction, it focuses force, fuels meaningful impact, energises joint teamwork, and boosts acknowledgment — the three elements from which joy arises, and which people seek intrinsically.

When you feel joy in your work, it’s a confirmation that you are doing exactly what you should be doing. That is good for you and your wellbeing, for your teammates, clients, and your organisation.