Finding Meaningful Work After 40: Five Career Fulfillment Drivers

A recent study in Management Science confirms what I have found to be true: women – in particular – desire work that is meaningful: "the sense of impact or purpose derived from and what is believed to be achieved as a result of a person's work."¹ This aligns with previous research on women's career development showing that finding meaningful work after 40 allows for authentic expression of capabilities - a priority for professional women.²

How can women achieve career fulfillment? The research identifies 4 key pathways to finding meaningful work:

1. Achievement & Mastery: A feeling of deep satisfaction when developing expertise and seeing results

   
   

2. Connection & Community: Thriving on meaningful relationships and collaboration

   
   

3. Autonomy & Innovation: The freedom to solve problems creatively and drive solutions

   
   

4. Purpose & Impact: Making a positive difference and meaningful change in others' lives

As a women's career strategist providing career advice for professional women over 40, I've seen these research findings validated countless times. Research by Mainiero and Sullivan demonstrates how women's career motivations evolve over time, adapting to different life stages and priorities.³ Building on this understanding in practice, I've observed a 5th element that also helps women derive meaning from their work:

5. Growth & Evolution: Thriving on learning, expanding capabilities, and self-discovery through new aspects of work. For these women, energy comes from personal and professional development.

Understanding Your Primary Driver

Just as each woman has a unique journey, we also have a primary career satisfaction style - essential career clarity for women seeking fulfillment. While we might resonate with several styles, usually one feels particularly authentic to us.

What is your main career satisfaction driver? Consider which statement feels most true:

• "I feel most fulfilled when I'm developing deep expertise in my field."

• "I'm happiest when I have the freedom to solve problems creatively."

• "Building meaningful professional relationships brings me the greatest satisfaction."

• "Making a positive impact through my work matters most to me."

• "I'm most energized when I'm learning and growing professionally."

The Power of Alignment

When your work aligns with your primary style, you're more likely to experience meaningful work after 40 – which can make Monday mornings feel like opportunities rather than obligations.

Understanding your career fulfillment style is the first step in aligning with your ideal work environment - essential next chapter career planning. Through my coaching practice, I've seen how this awareness helps professional women:

• Make more confident career decisions

• Communicate their value more effectively

• Achieve authentic professional success

Let’s keep growing! 🌱

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About the Author

Dr. Erica Walls provides career coaching for professional women over 40 in DC and nationwide, helping you navigate midlife career pivots and achieve strategic career advancement through career clarity and confidence. Ready to begin? Explore coaching programs | Book a consultation | Connect on LinkedIn

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¹ Burbano, V., Folke, O., Meier, S., & Rickne, J. (2023). The Gender Gap in Meaningful Work. Management Science.

² McKenna, E. P. (2008). What Women Want: The Science of Female Career Development. Davies-Black Publishing.

³ Mainiero, L. A., & Sullivan, S. E. (2006). The Opt-Out Revolt: Why People Are Leaving Companies to Create Kaleidoscope Careers. Davies-Black Publishing.