When it comes to work, there are two main ways people approach it: through hierarchy or through territory. In a hierarchy, the focus is on external rewards—things like promotions, titles, and salaries. People are motivated by status, recognition, and climbing the ladder. In a territory, the focus shifts to the work itself. Here, people are driven by the intrinsic value of what they do—the joy of creating, solving problems, or making a difference. While both approaches have their place, there’s a strong argument that focusing on your territory is more fulfilling and sustainable in the long run. Let’s explore why this is and how you can shift your mindset to prioritize the work over the rewards.
In a hierarchy, success is often measured by external markers. Did you get the promotion? Are you earning more than your peers? Do you have a fancy title? These things can feel rewarding in the moment, but they come with a catch. When your motivation is tied to external validation, your sense of worth can become dependent on others’ opinions. If you don’t get the promotion or the raise, it can feel like a personal failure. This can lead to stress, burnout, and a constant feeling of needing to prove yourself. The hierarchy is competitive by nature, and there’s always someone higher up the ladder to compare yourself to. This can make it hard to feel satisfied, no matter how much you achieve.
On the other hand, a territory is all about the work itself. It’s about finding meaning and purpose in what you do, regardless of external rewards. When you focus on your territory, you’re motivated by the process—the act of creating, learning, or contributing. This mindset shifts the focus from “What can I get?” to “What can I give?” For example, a writer might focus on the joy of crafting a story, rather than worrying about how many copies it will sell. A teacher might find fulfillment in helping students grow, rather than aiming for a higher position in the school. When you’re in your territory, the work becomes its own reward.
One of the biggest advantages of focusing on your territory is that it’s sustainable. External rewards can be fleeting—today’s promotion might feel great, but tomorrow you’ll be eyeing the next one. When your motivation comes from within, it’s not dependent on outside factors. This makes it easier to stay committed and passionate, even when things get tough. For example, an artist who loves the process of painting will keep creating, even if their work doesn’t sell right away. A scientist who’s driven by curiosity will keep experimenting, even if their research doesn’t lead to immediate recognition. This intrinsic motivation provides a steady source of energy and resilience.
Another benefit of focusing on your territory is that it fosters creativity and innovation. When you’re not worried about pleasing others or meeting external expectations, you’re free to take risks and think outside the box. This can lead to breakthroughs and new ideas that might not have emerged in a more rigid, hierarchical environment. For example, many of history’s greatest inventors and artists were driven by their love of the work, not by the promise of fame or fortune. Their passion and dedication allowed them to push boundaries and create something truly original.
Shifting from a hierarchical mindset to a territorial one isn’t always easy, especially in a world that often values status and rewards. But there are steps you can take to make this transition. The first is to identify what you truly love about your work. What aspects of your job or craft bring you joy? What makes you lose track of time? Focus on these things and make them a priority. For example, if you’re a writer, spend more time on the creative process and less time worrying about publishing deals. If you’re a teacher, focus on connecting with your students and helping them learn, rather than aiming for administrative roles.
Another important step is to set personal goals that align with your territory. Instead of aiming for external markers of success, like a promotion or a raise, set goals that reflect your values and passions. For example, you might aim to complete a project you’re proud of, learn a new skill, or make a positive impact in your community. These goals are more meaningful because they’re tied to what you care about, not what others expect of you.
It’s also helpful to create boundaries between your work and external validation. This might mean limiting how much you compare yourself to others or how much you focus on metrics like likes, shares, or sales. Instead, focus on the quality of your work and the satisfaction it brings you. For example, a musician might focus on perfecting their craft and enjoying the process of making music, rather than obsessing over streaming numbers or chart positions. By shifting your focus inward, you can protect your motivation and stay true to your territory.
Another key aspect of focusing on your territory is embracing failure as part of the process. In a hierarchy, failure can feel like a setback or a blow to your status. But in a territory, failure is just another step in the journey. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. When you’re motivated by the work itself, setbacks don’t feel as personal or devastating. Instead, they become valuable lessons that help you move forward. For example, a scientist whose experiment fails might see it as a chance to refine their hypothesis, rather than a reflection of their worth.
Finally, focusing on your territory allows you to find meaning in your work, even when it’s challenging or mundane. Every job has its ups and downs, but when you’re connected to the intrinsic value of what you do, even the tough days feel worthwhile. For example, a nurse might find meaning in caring for patients, even when the work is exhausting. A gardener might find joy in nurturing plants, even when the weather is unpredictable. This sense of purpose makes the work more fulfilling and helps you stay motivated over the long term.
The choice between hierarchy and territory is about where you find your motivation. While external rewards can be tempting, they often come with stress and dissatisfaction. Focusing on your territory—the work itself—offers a more fulfilling and sustainable path. By identifying what you love about your work, setting personal goals, and embracing failure, you can shift your mindset and find joy in the process. This approach not only makes your work more meaningful but also fosters creativity, resilience, and a deeper sense of purpose. So the next time you feel caught up in the race for status or rewards, take a step back and reconnect with your territory. The work itself is where the real magic happens.
