Think back to the last time someone at work said, “Thank you.”
Chances are, that moment stuck with you longer than expected. Why? Because we all crave something deeper than a paycheck. We want to know we matter. We want to feel seen, heard, and appreciated. That’s what “mattering” is all about, and it’s one of the most powerful forces driving happiness and success at work.
But today, this timeless human need is running headfirst into a modern worry: artificial intelligence. As AI takes on more tasks, many employees are asking, Will my job still matter? Will I still be valued, or could I be replaced? That uncertainty cuts right to the core of mattering — the need to know that your ideas, your presence, and your contributions truly make a difference.
When people believe they matter, they see their efforts count. Their voices carry weight. Their contributions get noticed. And in a world where technology is racing ahead, reinforcing that sense of mattering may be one of the most important things leaders can do to protect wellbeing, reduce fear, and build resilience.
In this article, we’ll explore why mattering isn’t just a nice-to-have but essential for organizations. And we’ll look at what leaders can do right now to help their people feel valued.