This week on the Squiggly Careers podcast, Helen and Sarah borrow brilliance from Dr. Zach Mercurio’s book The Power of Mattering. They talk about how mattering goes beyond belonging, why it boosts motivation and wellbeing, and what happens when we feel invisible or replaceable at work. From personal reflections on high and low mattering moments to practical ways to help others feel noticed, affirmed, and needed, Helen and Sarah bring this idea to life with real-world examples. You’ll learn how small actions — from giving meaningful feedback to showing appreciation — can make a big difference to how people feel, perform, and connect at work.

Episode 514

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⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:30 What is mattering? Feeling valued and valuable

04:39 Mattering vs belonging — what’s the difference?

07:42 The data: 4 in 10 people feel invisible at work

10:07 High and low mattering moments in your career

17:00 The 3 ingredients of mattering

18:44 Noticing others in meetings

22:35 Affirmation vs recognition

27:36 Making people feel needed

33:41 The mattering spectrum: meaningless, mattering, enmeshment

35:27 How to increase mattering for yourself and others

🎯 What You’ll Learn

- How to understand the psychology of mattering at work

- The difference between belonging and mattering

- Three simple ways to help others feel valued and valuable

- How to create a stronger sense of purpose and performance in your team

📚 Resources Mentioned

The Power of Mattering by Dr. Zach Mercurio

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