It’s true that all of us have some things in common. We all want a paycheck, we all want to leave work on time, and we all love taking time off on weekends. But there are also some key differences in people—what makes them tick.

Michael Hyatt proposes The 3 Components of Job Satisfaction : passion , proficiency , and profitability. In order for one to be fully satisfied with their job, all three must be present.

Passion speaks to what one cares about deeply, what truly grabs one’s interest and motivates at a heart level. Proficiency has to do with one’s skill set, abilities, and strengths. Being good at something or at least having the ability to master or excel in a skill adds to job satisfaction. Profitability speaks to sustainability. If one cannot make a profit and provide for their needs with what they are good at doing and love to do, it’s pointless to pursue a career in it.

Considering these three components it’s important for a leader or manager to help employees discover their sweet spot—that area where all three overlap. While it’s not always possible for one to work in their sweet spot all the time, helping them move in that direction or training them for a position that allows them to work most of the time in their sweet spot will certainly increase motivation and engagement.

Consider tools such as the Strengths Finder or Myers Briggs to help your people discover what makes them tick. A unique career assessment that powers the whole person is The Highlands Ability Battery. Although quite costly, I took it years ago when making a major shift in my career.

Bottom line, what are you doing today to either move toward your sweet spot or your employees toward theirs? If you or they are struggling with motivation, this may be the key that unlocks the door to unreleased potential.

In my next post, I’ll share my personal journey of moving toward my sweet spot.