Making a Meaningful Difference by Valuing Our Work

‘Value for work’ is the significance we ascribe to what we do that consequently influences our  attitude towards how we carry it out. It is how we give importance to the work entrusted to us. It goes with the attention we render, the talents and skills we employ, the resources we spend, and the energy we pour out. How we view our individual work in relation to its impact to the organization, agency, or business determines our value for work regardless of area of function.  If we duly consider the adverse effects of haphazard work and the benefits of an excellent work, naturally, we will do what is required or expected of us.

In terms of public service, laws were enacted and rules were issued to promote or ensure excellence in government service. Among others are the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, the Act Promoting Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Delivery of Government Services, the Administrative Code of 1987, and the Civil Service Rules that penalize any act of inefficiency in government service. On the other hand, employers in the private sector were also empowered to dismiss their employees for acts inimical to the operation of their business upon compliance to the requirements of due process.

However, excellence should be observed in all fields of endeavor beyond compliance to legal mandate or inducement. Most of the time, it starts with an established connection between what the individual highly value and the work they do that often takes most of their waking hours. If there is a lose connection between the two, the tasks become more of a monotonous schedule rather than a daily activity that contributes to positive outcomes of the agency or office. Also, not losing sight of the answer to “why we do the work that we do” fuels the significance or value we attribute to our work. Ascribing value to our work makes a meaningful difference in many ways such as:

• We see our work as an important piece of the puzzle. Hence, we sharpen ourselves to ensure that we contribute our quota effectively and efficiently towards the achievement of the agency’s vision, mission and goals.
  
• We value the people above us, around us and below us knowing that the success of the office can never be a solo project. Regardless of position, we esteem others better than ourselves.
  
• We produce a work that adds value to others especially our clients, as we make every task an opportunity to create a positive impact in the lives of others.

 
Moreover, we are encouraged that “whatever we do, we work heartily as for the Lord and not for people”. If the latter becomes the driving force, our value for work is grounded on gaining recognition, glory and gold. And when these are not achieved, we sometimes underrate what we do and life at work becomes less meaningful. This should not be the case.
As we ponder on the ‘value for work’ this week, may we find ourselves back into the path of doing our best for God in everything we do “for it is He who works in us, giving us the desire and the power to do what pleases Him”. By doing so, we will learn to regard our work and the people at work in the same manner as God sees them. (AOS, CRFV)