“To business that we love we rise bedtime, and go to’t with delight.”

– William Shakespeare, playwright

What are the qualities and the characteristics of people who love their work and take delight in it? Is it possible to intentionally design work in such a way as to foster greater employee engagement, satisfaction and productivity?

According to Daniel Pink, in his book Drive (published in 2009), three things are necessary:

• Autonomy, which Pink describes as the ability to direct the course of your own life and the work that you perform.
• Self-challenge and mastery, or the over-arching desire to improve yourself and get better at what you enjoy.
• Purpose, the reason behind your role, beyond personal gain – yes, making a difference through your efforts.

Exercise:

How can you pursue greater autonomy, mastery, and purpose in your work … and influence your organization to foster these qualities for everyone?