Key Joy Indicators, with thanks to Ingrid

Key Joy Indicators (KJIs): What Really Matters at Work

by Pam Eidson

Inspired by Ingrid Fetell Lee

September 23rd is my sixth editor-versary. On this date in 2019, I realized editing would be the next chapter (hah) in my life. By the end of the week I had formed E before I, LLC, and enrolled in University of Chicago’s editing certificate program. I officially left public health a year later. Now I edit textbooks and independent authors’ books, and I work with nonprofits to create coherent narratives. The biggest surprise is that I love editing textbooks!

My word of the year for 2025 is Joy. I took a course called “Wild Joy” with Ingrid Fetell Lee in January. We found ways to access the joy we have always had within us. In the spring, Ingrid posted about key joy indicators. On this editor-versary, I took out my notes on KJIs and wrote this post.

Excitement about my work. I keep bringing up work in conversation because it's genuinely interesting. I feel connected to the purpose and impact of work in a way that motivates me. I eagerly anticipate feedback because I'm proud. I can't wait to tell people about this project!

Connections. Collaboration makes work more fulfilling and creative. There’s a “collective effervescence.” Did my network of supportive connections sustain me? How did I contribute to the network?

Anticipation. How do I feel when I think about the day or week ahead? Do I look forward to aspects of my work day?

Laughter and smiles. How often do I catch myself smiling? Have I laughed, during my work day or with my connections?

Energy levels. Does my work energize or deplete me (in energy-sapping-conditions-adjusted terms)? Does my work engage my values and strengths? Do I, generally, feel satisfied after work?

Engagement in work events. Do I enthusiastically participate in workshops? Celebrations? Organizations?

Time perception. Think of the state of flow [Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi], a hallmark of play. Am I fully present and engaged? Does the time sometimes fly by?

Creative flow. Am I having moments of creative inspiration or problem-solving breakthroughs?

Authenticity. Am I being myself (or am I self-censoring)?

Growth. Am I challenged in ways that lead to developing my skills and confidence?

Purpose alignment. Is my work meaningful and connected to my values?

Physical well-being. How does work affect my sleep, appetite, and overall physical health?

Adding some of my own thoughts about the role of work in the big picture of my life:

·        Did I play a game spontaneously?

·        Did I get to walk or stretch or dance when I wanted to?

·        Do I feel a direct connection between earning money through work I love and getting to do other activities I love?

·        The Magic Trick [Emily and Amelia Nagoski]: When was the last time I moved together or sang with a group of others in a way that felt like my “self” melted away? Can I conjure up those memories when I want to?

Ingrid says KJIs aren’t about numerical targets. They’re about developing awareness of my internal experience and using that awareness to make intentional choices about my work life. I’m smiling just thinking about them: What a measure of performance!