(And Why That Truth Should Change the Way We Lead)

There’s a powerful quote in Wellbeing at Work by Jim Clifton that feels like it holds the heartbeat of humanity:

“What the whole world wants is a good job.”

Not fame.
Not fortune.
Not fancy titles or fast promotions.

Just… a good job.

But what does that actually mean?

At its core, a good job is one that allows you to wake up in the morning, feel a sense of purpose, use your God-given strengths, and know that someone at work sees you—not just for what you do, but for who you are.

A Good Job Is Spiritual, Too

As a strengths-based coach and someone who walks in faith, I believe with my whole heart that we are each created with unique talents—divinely placed within us to serve others and fulfill our purpose.

So when Gallup says that people want a job where they can use their strengths every day, I take that a step further:

People want a job where they can use their God-given strengths. And they want a manager who encourages their development and growth—not just to climb a ladder, but to live into their calling.

Because work isn’t just about what we do. It’s about who we’re becoming.

What We Know for Sure

Through my coaching with teams, I’ve seen this deep desire over and over again.

When people have a job that allows them to:

• Use their strengths
• Feel appreciated
• Grow with support

…they thrive.

When they don’t?

They shut down. They go through the motions. They start looking for joy somewhere else.

And guess what? That’s not good for people—or for business.

Leaders, This Is Your Moment

If you’re in a position of leadership—even if it’s just one person you influence—you have the opportunity to change someone’s life by how you see them.

Here’s your call to action:

• Help people discover their strengths
• Encourage their development
• Ask: “How is your life going?”—and really mean it

Because the truth is, people don’t just want a job—they want a job that helps them become the best version of who God created them to be.

Let’s Build Workplaces That Honor That

Here in Northern New England where I live, we’re gritty, grounded, and good-hearted. But I believe we’re also ready for something more:

Imagine a workplace where you don’t have to leave your purpose at the door. Where your boss feels more like a coach. And where your natural strengths aren’t just clapped for—they’re called into action.

If you’re a company leader who wants to explore how to bring this kind of culture into your workplace, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Let’s help your people do more than just show up to work.

Let’s help them come alive.

What makes a job feel good to you? Let’s start a conversation that matters—in the comments, around the breakroom, or across the boardroom table.