The Difference Between Meaning and Fun
"Not everyone can go have a fun job, Travis!"
These were the words of a friend during a recent conversation, though it's probably the thousandth time I've heard this statement. We were talking about the topic of work, specifically, my idea that we should all pursue meaning in our work. My buddy, fully well-intentioned, did what so many people do: He twisted the word "meaning" into fun.
His main point is that not all work can be fun, and "fun jobs" don't always pay the bills. He's right! He's 100% right. Not all work can be fun. In fact, I'd argue that most work isn't necessarily fun. That's why you never hear me say "pursue fun work." Instead, I advocate pursuing meaning in our work; meaning <> fun.
Meaning can mean fun. Sometimes meaning is fun. Meaningful work can have fun aspects. However, the word meaning doesn't imply fun; it implies meaning. Meaning exudes purpose, satisfaction, and fulfillment. Those terms are not always synonymous with fun.
I have a tremendously meaningful work week coming up. I can't say that a lot of it will be fun. I'll surely find joy in it. I'll savor the moments where I get to make an impact. I'll rejoice in using my gifts to serve a greater purpose. But "fun" isn't a key ingredient to the week. I'd even argue that for many people who find deep meaning in their work, "fun" isn't a term they would use.
One of my friends is an ER surgeon. Every single day is life and death. Every decision and every movement has the power to save someone (or not). Then, he has to share some of the most devastating news with loved ones. He's with people on the scariest and most tragic days of their lives. He would never call his job "fun," but he finds deep meaning in it.
Another friend is the CEO of a fairly large company. Stress is his middle name. He spends every moment of his workday putting out fires and making gut-wrenching decisions. He finds deep meaning in his work, but I doubt he'd call it "fun."
A good buddy is a teacher. He teaches teens. He's with these kids in the midst of some of their most formative years.....and peak hormones. He gets the good, the bad, and the ugly. I don't think he'd call it "fun" all the time, but man, he finds meaning in it.
Meaning is not always fun. Fun isn't the objective. So when I say we should pursue meaning in our work, I mean we should pursue meaning. When we experience meaning, we'll find the joy, the fulfillment, the passion, and sometimes, even a little fun.
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