I work in a college library across the road from a runway of a major airport. The library has big windows that are across the room from my desk. Although the room faces generally west, it gets lots of natural sunlight throughout the day. I see planes a split second before they actually touch down, but the real jolt (of joy) comes from unexpectedly seeing a plane a split second after it has taken off. The sunlight, the windows, and the airplanes have nothing to do with what my job IS, but environment has a great deal to do with job satisfaction, and this is a great physical environment. For a long time I was miserable at my job, though. I was just a low-level grunt. Then I started thinking up tasks that weren't in my job description, and even though I wasn't being paid any extra to be creative, I've made a BIG difference in how we do things because I took the time to figure out how to do things better using computer technology. Now I am recognized for my creativity and initiative. This is partly why I get paid more than the other medium-level grunts. Being able to use your talents and express yourself is a big part of job satisfaction. Also, I get to wear jeans, sneakers, and tee shirts every day, so comfort is a big factor, too. Without all this my job would be merely to smile, say "May I help you?", and get the person a book. That would not be a happy situation.
