We reviewed over 60 studies about what makes for a dream job. Here's what we found

Abstract

Contrary to popular notions, the research reveals that a high salary or low stress levels are not the keys to fulfilling work. Instead, it highlights six key ingredients for a satisfying career: work that’s engaging, beneficial to others, corresponds with one’s skills, involves supportive colleagues, lacks significant negatives, and aligns with one’s personal life. This article advises against the traditional mantra of “follow your passion,” suggesting that it can limit options and create unrealistic expectations. Instead, it advocates focusing on developing skills in areas that contribute to society. It reinforces this principle by correlating successful, satisfying careers with those that emphasize improving the lives of others. – AI-generated abstract.