When we’re young, we often grow up dreaming of who we want to be. As we get older, those dreams start to shift – reality sets in and our paths often turn out much different than what we imagined as a child. A variety of factors can influence our career, such as access to opportunity, changing interests and skill sets, or other life events like starting a family. Usually, people who find meaning in their work tend to be happier, as their passion and drive for what they do keeps them motivated. The happiest jobs for each person will vary according to their individual strengths and unique personality.
It’s not uncommon now to frequently switch jobs or careers in order to find one that fulfills you or pays more. A survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by distance learning provider Open Study College found that the average millennial has already worked as many jobs as most people in their fifties have over the course of their entire career. Survey respondents between the ages of 25 and 34 have already worked an average of six different jobs so far in their careers. On the other hand, the average older adult approaching retirement has worked seven jobs throughout their entire life. The idea that you have to stick to one career path is outdated.
Few things hold as much significance as the pursuit of professional fulfillment. It is a profound quest, for within the realm of meaningful work lies the key to unlocking our highest potential. A job that ignites our passion and resonates with our core values transcends the confines of mere labor, becoming a vessel through which we channel our talents and aspirations. When we find ourselves immersed in a role that nurtures our growth and allows us to express our authentic selves, we become architects of our own destiny. Our days no longer blend into a monotonous blur, but rather, they emerge as vibrant strokes on the canvas of existence. The importance of being fulfilled in a job lies not just in the happiness it brings, but also in the profound impact it has on our overall well-being and sense of purpose.
StudyFinds researched which are considered the happiest jobs that people tend to report a higher level of satisfaction at, according to experts. However, what you will consider meaningful depends on your own outlook. Are you extremely happy at your job? Let us know what you do in the comments below!
The List: Happiest Jobs, According to Career Experts
1. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists are experts in movement and the human body that often help to rehabilitate people with injuries or disabilities. They are responsible for prescribing and providing treatment and educating patients. “Arguably one of the best parts of working as a physical therapist is getting to help others improve their health and resume their daily activities,” writes Best Colleges. “In PayScale’s survey, a whopping 90% of physical therapists felt their job held high meaning. Moreover, about 4 in 5 physical therapists surveyed reported high professional satisfaction.”
Physical therapists probably get to see the most direct impact of their work during their sessions with patients as well as in results over time. “Physical therapists are happy because they interact with so many people on a daily basis. We trust their expertise, and good physical therapists really help change peoples’ bodies for the better,” says Science of People.
According to Leaders, the average salary for physical therapists is over $90,000 and requires a doctorate and state license in the field. “Providing care as a physical therapist means helping patients to find ways to alleviate their pain and gain mobility so they can live without restriction. For this reason, being a physical therapist can be one of the happiest careers.”
2. Firefighter
Firefighters are trained rescuers and medics that are first to respond in many emergency situations. “In addition to fighting fires, firefighters are responsible for responding to medical emergencies, hazardous situations, rescue missions, and fire alarms. While being a firefighter can be dangerous, it can also be incredibly rewarding,” writes Leaders.
Though you do need to be in great physical condition and go through training, there is no prerequisite degree needed. “Unknown to most people, you don’t necessarily need a bachelor’s degree to become a firefighter in most states in the US. You can start as a volunteer firefighter and gradually learn the ropes,” says Career Karma.
According to Science of People, the average salary is $48,660 and it only requires a high school diploma or GED. “Not only do they get the glory, but firefighters also are lucky enough to be part of a tribe or team. Working in close quarters and literally having your life depend on your coworkers at times creates strong bonds between firefighters—bonds that often last a lifetime.”
3. Teacher
As a teacher you are required to have a bachelor’s degree and complete training in order to earn your teaching credentials. The level of education required may also vary according to the level and subject you plan to teach. “Teachers in general report being happy with their jobs, despite the current issues with education funding and classroom conditions,” writes Forbes. “The profession continues to attract young idealists, although fifty percent of new teachers are gone within five years.”
Teaching is another way to directly impact the lives of others, often starting in the early years. “There is nothing more wonderful than seeing children achieve and progress,” says Kathryn Bowers, a teacher of autistic children at the Puzzle Centre in Buckinghamshire in an article by The Guardian. “Children start with limited interaction skills and often with virtually no methods to communicate.”
Science of People specifically notes the happiness of kindergarten teachers. “Teachers are happy because they help develop a child’s personal, social, and emotional skills, and also get to see their students grow up along the way. Many teachers often feel sad to see their students go, as they become attached to them.”
4. Teaching Assistant
Teaching assistants are responsible for many of the same duties as teachers and is often the preliminary path into becoming a teacher. “A teaching assistant, or aide, supports a teacher with supervising classroom activities and other instructional responsibilities to help students succeed both academically and personally. They often will help prepare lesson plans and monitor student progress,” writes Indeed.
Teaching assistants often rated their job satisfaction as some of the best, despite the position not having the best salary. “Our happiest job by a longshot is research/teaching assistants,” states Business Insider. “They love everything from the people they work with to their organizational culture and work freedom.”
Happier Human ranks it as the number one happiest job. “The pay on this rewarding job is not that high (on average), but it is very rewarding because you get to work with children and see them progress.”
5. Quality Assurance Analyst
QA Analyst jobs are forecasted for extreme growth over the next few years. The positions often favor those with data analytics degrees, but can also be obtained without one by getting a foot in the door at other positions within a company. “It may surprise some people that a QA analyst is second on the list of happiest jobs in America,” writes Happier Human. “Quality assurance analysts test products and systems to make sure that they meet companies’ standards. This includes creating test plans, cases, and scripts to ensure accuracy.”
QA Analysts tend to be good problem solvers and have great attention to detail. They are dedicated to ensuring processes are conducted in the best way possible. “Recent surveys have found that quality analysts have been rated high in terms of satisfaction factors. Quality analysts jobs are rated high as they get the chance to work with colleagues and bosses with independence,” says Wisestep.
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Sources:
- Best Colleges
- Science of People
- Leaders
- Career Karma
- Forbes
- The Guardian
- Indeed
- Business Insider
- Happier Human
- Wisestep
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