Wanting More Meaning

Wanting More Meaning

Posted on 26. Sep, 2011 by in 1 Leadership, People & Change

It seems amidst all the craziness in our world the conversation about having a more meaningful life comes up often. It’s a bright spot in these murky times without doubt.

Meaning is a topic central to the book proposal I’m working on and how leaders can leverage this aspect of being human. Perhaps because I’m writing about it, I see it everywhere. My friend Laura Goodrich writes about this phenomenon in her book Seeing Red Cars.

Perhaps, though, it’s a combination of several realities: tough global and personal economic lessons; relearning to make do with what we have; living more simply. The list could go on.

Because I’m preoccupied with all things leadership, I have to expound on their influence on leaders.

With tight budgets and meager salary raises, leaders can shift their focus to help employees pull more meaning from their work. Leaders who connect with their people get this – intuitively or purposefully.

I think, too, that leaders who want more from themselves get this. I like to believe there’s a certain “knowing” that there’s more meaning in leadership than cheerleading.

It’s also being brave or audacious. It’s wanting to see people’s achieve goals.
It’s being part of another person’s life and experiencing her highs-and-lows.
It’s failing together and recovering together.
It’s witnessing those ah-ha moments spread across an employee’s face.
It’s standing on tables to make a point that will be remembered because it was delivered with passion.

Yes, these are crazy times. But you, the leader who connects, you’ll witness the influences of wanting more meaning happening around you. It will take a good long pause to see it, but once you do tap into it. Make a powerful contribution to your employees’ life.

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8 Responses to “Wanting More Meaning”

  1. Bruce Sallan (@BruceSallan)

    26. Sep, 2011

    Without “meaning” in our lives, there is no value to living!

    Reply to this comment

    • Shawn Murphy

      26. Sep, 2011

      Bruce, obviously I’m biased in agreeing with your comment. But, life without meaning is just merely existing. I don’t believe we’re designed for that.

      As always, Bruce, I appreciate your support!

      Shawn

      Reply to this comment

  2. James Strock

    26. Sep, 2011

    Fine post, Shawn. Could one say that one way for a leader to serve effectively is to love those she is serving?…. this requires a depth of empathy and engagement that necessarily will help both parties find meaning…..

    Reply to this comment

    • Shawn Murphy

      26. Sep, 2011

      James,
      Yes, love does enter into the equation of helping employees pull more meaning from work. It’s an awkward word in business, but it’s always been there. Maybe not in all manager-boss relationships.

      Hope you’re well, James.
      Shawn

      Reply to this comment

  3. Suchitra Mishra

    27. Sep, 2011

    Hello Shawn,

    Very well put, Shawn – from research we do know that more people leave companies on account of their managers than pay (rises). Many companies have understood this and have tried to show that they care through their policies. But we all need to bring more meaning into our interactions with our people/teams – the little touches go a long way here – a thank you, a how are you doing today, a pat on the back for a good job done, inquiring about their families – all these things don’t need budgets and policies – just a heart that really cares. And then watch productivity and engagement zoom.

    Regards,
    Suchitra

    Reply to this comment

    • Shawn Murphy

      27. Sep, 2011

      Suchitra,
      Now let’s tackle the “I don’t have time” excuse too often cited for reasons against relating to employees.

      Cheers,
      Shawn

      Reply to this comment

  4. Jon Mertz

    27. Sep, 2011

    Shawn,

    An essential discussion… best wishes with your book initiative. I know it will be great, can’t wait!

    Jon

    Reply to this comment

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