How to Find Purpose and Earn a Living

Let’s be honest, sometimes your job isn’t all you want it to be. Long hours, challenging coworkers, and stressful situations can have a negative impact on the other aspects of your life. Suddenly you’re getting less sleep, you’re short with loved ones and you spend more time dreading the impending work hours than you do enjoying your time off.

We know quitting your job isn’t necessarily the most logical recommendation to give you, so here are a few ways to make the most of the job you have and find purpose no matter what you’re currently doing.

To start, it may sound corny, but don’t take work for granted. There are so many people without the ability or opportunity to work, who would gladly take your position. We aren’t discounting any trouble or issues you have at work, this is just something to keep in the back of your mind when things get really tough. 

Remember why you work 

If you are trying to provide for your family, set your children up with quality educations, or save up for that dream vacation, make sure you keep these objectives in mind when you work. It is easy to get caught up in the minute-to-minute craziness, but if you stay focused on the bigger picture it can help you gain a healthy perspective of your job. In the same vein, a change in attitude can greatly improve the time spent at your job. If you vow to stay positive about the day, odds are it will be more difficult to bring your mood down, no matter what hiccups or problems come along. 

Brighten up your workday

Here are a few funny websites to brighten your time at work:

• Despair.com – Check out the Demotivators section to see if you can relate to these office poster clichés. 
• Awkward Family Photos – Want to really laugh? Visit this site that features the most awkward family photos ever and some pretty hilarious videos as well.
• Sporcle – In the mood for some trivia on your lunch break? Sporcle has every quiz topic imaginable, so let’s see how well you really know those infamous Melrose Place episodes.

If you really want to get more out of your work, spend some time investing in those around you. When you become the one motivating others, your job suddenly has a greater purpose. You don’t have to be the boss to invest in your coworkers, consider every interaction to be an opportunity to impact another life. It will change your perspective and we bet you’ll look forward to work!

Need a Change? Tips for Landing the Perfect Job

We know what you’re going to say, “TGMC you don’t understand how rough my job is, I need to get out!” We understand that too, and it’s normal! On average, a person will switch careers seven times in his or her life. Not just where you work, but actual vocational fields. So if you find yourself in need of a new career, here are some tips for landing the perfect job.

Networking: Never underestimate the importance of getting your face out in front of those who can help get you farther. There are many networking events to go to that will let you talk to people in the field you want to be in. No matter where you live, there are networking events for you. Check out Network After Work, a nationally recognized company that connects you with business professionals in your city through mixers to exchange business cards. 

Career Sites: There are so many job search websites that it can be very overwhelming to search online for a job. There are some great sites that are well respected and companies will post job requirements, salary offers, and allow for an upload of a resume that is saved to the site. If you save the type of jobs you want to apply for, some sites will send you jobs in your field when they are added online. Here are a few sites for you to check out: 

• Indeed.com – This site will alert you of jobs in your area. Apply online and save your resume for future applications.
• CareerBuilder – This site requires those posting jobs to put in as many details as possible, which makes it easier for you to find a job that fits your skill set perfectly.
• Monster.com – Another great site for uploading resumes, learning more about companies searching for employees and choosing which job fits you best. 

Building a Resume: Now that you know where to look for jobs, you need a glowing resume. There are many professionals who specialize in helping to build a resume. They will talk with you, decide which skills are best to highlight and show you how to structure your resume to put forth the best version of yourself. 

LinkedIn: You’ve probably received a few dozen email requests from your friends to join their LinkedIn network. While it may seem like just another message to delete, LinkedIn is actually a really convenient way to network. You design a profile, add friends who can attest to your skills, and companies can view your page and connect with you. 94% of companies use some sort of social media for building their businesses, and LinkedIn is a great way to connect with companies all over, not just in your area.

Degree Advancement: Let’s be honest, the higher the level of your completed education is, the easier it will be for you to get a better job. Check to see if the company you currently work for will pay for you to take classes to improve your education, this is a popular trend companies are using to improve the quality of employees and allow for advancement in the organization. If they do not offer compensation, it is still a good choice to at least take night classes to give you a leg up in the job market. 

Be Prepared: When the time comes that you DO get an interview, make sure you’re ready. Know your strengths and weaknesses, have questions to ask those interviewing you, research the company, and have someone ask you potential interview questions. Have your resume, as well as your references ready when you walk in the door. Anything you can do to make you more comfortable, confident and prepared, do it. It will give you a better chance of getting hired. 

Whether you are changing professions or trying to improve your current job situation, don’t underestimate the impact your attitude can have on the situation. If you have resolved to find purpose and meaning in your job, then search for it! Take TGMC for example. We took fundraising and gave it a new look, making it fun, successful, simple and filled with purpose: bringing health & wellness to students and financial services to PTO/PTA groups around the country. If we can do it, then so can you!