In physics work is the transfer of energy from one place to another. This is achieved by applying a force to an object over a distance (or a displacement). Work is measured in units known as the joule (newton-metre) and is used to quantify the amount of energy transferred per unit time. Work is also a concept often used in everyday language: for example, when someone is “working hard,” they are typically referring to the amount of effort they are putting into a task.
People’s priorities differ widely around the world. While in many places a person’s job may be their primary source of income, other important aspects of life are also taken into consideration, such as the ability to care for themselves and others, access to education, healthcare, social services and transportation, and housing.
For some, a sense of purpose and meaning in their work is essential to their self-worth. Work is seen as a way to contribute to society and the world, and some even see it as a moral imperative. This can be reflected in the outsized role that a culture’s ideas about work play in shaping its attitudes towards it.
Some cultures and subcultures have more of an emphasis on leisure or work-life balance, while others promote a particular value of work, such as that articulated by German sociologist Max Weber in his theory of the Protestant work ethic or by Pope John Paul II in his encyclical Laborem exercensis.
While the notion of work is highly contextual, it’s not unusual for a sports professional to be viewed as a “worker” even when they are not on the field of competition or performing medical care off-duty. This is a result of the fact that, for them, the practice of their sport serves a purpose in relation to both themselves and other people.
Likewise, the work of teachers and care workers is considered to be “work” as they engage in the process of imparting knowledge. On the other hand, activities like playing a game of golf or engaging in self-care are usually not seen as “work.”
It is also important to note that what qualifies as “work” can change over time. A sport is a “work” when it is a career for a professional athlete, but is more likely to be considered a hobby for someone who plays for recreational purposes. The same applies to providing first aid, which is work for a paramedic on duty but not when done as a volunteer or by a person who does it for personal pleasure.
The question of what constitutes a “work” is not only important for individuals and their well-being, but it is also important to the future of businesses. In order to capture the full potential of their employees, companies need to rethink the nature of their work and move beyond simply refining tasks that can be automated or moving people into management roles that are less susceptible to automation. Fundamentally redefining work isn’t just an opportunity for organizations to gain competitive advantage, but it is a chance to help workers find more meaning and passion in their day-to-day jobs.