The Double-Edged Sword of Loving Your Work

The concept of 'loving your work' is increasingly becoming a moral imperative affecting personal and professional dynamics. While intrinsic motivation can drive success, its moralization can lead to judgment and pressure. This trend risks marginalizing those with different work motivations, potentially leading to burnout and workplace conflict.

'Find a job you love, and you'll never work a day in your life' is popular advice for graduates. Love for work, often linked to intrinsic motivation, is hailed as a route to success in the American ethos.

Recent research highlights a new dimension: the moralization of intrinsic motivation. What was once personal preference is now becoming a moral directive, as people judge themselves and others based on whether they are intrinsically motivated. This has resulted in moral dilemmas within the workplace.

The implications spread beyond individuals. Intrinsic motivation has transformed into a moral standard, influencing team dynamics and creating tensions. Leaders championing intrinsic motivation may alienate those driven by stability or duty. This highlights the complexity intrinsic motivation brings to modern work culture.

(With inputs from agencies.)