A need, according to Webster's Dictionary, is a requirement or lack of something deemed necessary.

Since needs form the basis of behavior, unfulfilled needs result in job dissatisfaction. 

Your job needs reflect your reactions to your work situation. As you gain competence, a job that first seemed challenging may become boring. 

Moreover, as you mature, your need hierarchies may change. A young person with a job that involves extensive travel may be very satisfied. But once married with children, travel may become displeasing. For a more in-depth explanation of job needs, please refer to Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life:www.daretochange.com

What Job Needs Are Important to You?

Rank your top six job needs:

Achievement
Adventure
Altruism
Helping others
Associates
Contact with colleagues
Autonomy
Challenge
Competition
Creativity
Financial returns
Good salary and fringe benefits
Esthetics
Growth
Intellectual Stimulation
Involvement
Management
Power
Prestige
Spirituality
Security
Supervisory relations
Surroundings
Variety
Way of life
Purpose
eamwork
Locale
Leisure
Self confidence
Resources
Skills
Other.  _____

What needs are currently being satisfied? What needs aren't? What needs do you want your ideal position to satisfy? 

How to create fulfilling work 

-- Explore ways to creatively redesign or restructure your job. Then propose suggestions to your superiors.

For example, if you need more challenge, envision how a highly motivated, creative person would restructure your position. If you feel overworked or dislike some tasks, delegate responsibilities to a colleague who may enjoy them.  Then devote more energy to completing projects compatible with your needs and strengths.

-- Investigate other options within your company.  This is less risky than moving to another organization. Know what's going on in the company. Read memos, listen to rumors, and attend meetings. Anticipate changes.

Determine the kind of position that can satisfy your needs and use your skills and other attributes. Get to know the key people in the right department and make your interest known to them. Show how your skills and accomplishments can contribute to the department. 

-- Broaden your career horizons. Investigate options with different companies, related occupations, different fields of work, or self employment. 

Ask yourself, "What do I really want to do?" "If I received 20 million dollars, what would I do?" "Of all the people I've met, whose job would I want?"

What other personal qualities would you like to express on the job? Include your passion, interests, values, skills, strengths, job tasks, and amount responsibility and authority. 

-- Take charge. Monitor your career development. Stay attuned to new opportunities. View your career as a continuing quest to develop personally and professionally.  

For more tips, refer to Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life, found in the link above.