This study is based on Estonian Biobank data, a national project that brought together thousands of participants. Everyone answered a long questionnaire after a blood donation. The survey focused on their current profession, their salary, their psychological profile and their level of satisfaction in several aspects of their lives. By crossing the responses of 59,042 volunteers with the precise characteristics of their job, the researchers were able to establish an average satisfaction index by profession.
Based on this information, they have drawn up a classification of 263 trades according to the well-being they provide. The professions in mind are those where individuals find meaning in what they do. Priests, doctors, writers … These activities share a strong personal commitment and a direct link with others. In contrast, the professions where working conditions are deemed difficult, such as cooking, transport, industry or sale, appear to be the least fulfilling.
When the work influences all life
The study also took into account life satisfaction as a whole, and not only that linked to professional activity. As a result, certain professions, as a psychologist, specialized teacher, skilled worker or naval engineer, are distinguished by a higher level of life satisfaction. Conversely, guards, servers, factors or carpenters display lower general well-being.
Overall, several factors influence happiness at work, but neither the level of remuneration nor the prestige of the post seem decisive. “”I expected that the prestige of the profession was more linked to satisfaction, but there was only a weak correlation“Explains Kätlin Anni, researcher at the University of Tartu and co -author of the study, at the magazine New Scientist.”The professions providing a greater feeling of accomplishment are associated with greater personal satisfaction, and even less prestigious jobs can be very fulfilling“.
In other words, an unobtice, even invisible, profession can become a source of deep pride if it allows the one who exercises it to feel useful, recognized as well and aligned with its values.
Stress also plays a key role. Certain positions of responsibility, especially in large companies, suffer from an excess of pressure and rigidity, which weighs on personal balance. Conversely, self -employed workers, more free to manage their schedule, appear globally more fulfilled.
Can we apply these results to other countries? Caution is essential, because professional experiences are shaped by local realities. Cultural standards, social expectations, economic conditions … so many elements that color the perception of work. But this study opens up interesting tracks to rethink the place of the profession in our quest for well-being. What if the ideal job was not the one who is dreaming, but the one who makes sense for us?