Rethinking Work Through the Lens of “Defining Properly”
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “working properly”?
Perhaps it’s the image of someone showing up on time every day, completing assigned tasks efficiently, and achieving results that are recognized by their employer. For many, this is the standard of what it means to “work properly.”

However, defining “properly” is not as straightforward as it may seem. In the context of disability employment, this concept becomes even more complex. The challenges faced by individuals with disabilities—including fluctuating health, societal expectations, and insufficient support systems—make applying a universal standard of “proper work” unrealistic and, at times, counterproductive.

This article explores the difficulties of “working properly” in disability employment, examining the idea that “defining properly is difficult.” By rethinking what it means to “work properly,” we can open the door to new possibilities for inclusive and supportive work environments.

What Does It Mean to “Work Properly”?
For many, “working properly” implies the following:

Arriving and leaving work on time.
Completing assigned tasks accurately.
Contributing visibly to the organization or society.
While these are common expectations, they don’t always align with the realities of disability employment. For individuals with disabilities, rigid definitions of “working properly” often fail to account for unique circumstances, abilities, and challenges.

For example, people with disabilities often experience daily health fluctuations or face significant stress related to societal pressures. When they are held to conventional standards of “proper work,” their motivation and sense of inclusion may be negatively affected.

Why “Defining Properly” Is Difficult in Disability Employment
1. Individual Differences
Each person with a disability has unique traits, abilities, and limitations. Some may thrive in shorter work hours, while others excel with tailored tasks or additional support. A one-size-fits-all definition of “working properly” doesn’t accommodate these diverse needs.

2. Flexibility in Work Styles
In many workplaces, “working properly” is tied to fixed schedules and rigid expectations. However, remote work or flexible arrangements often enable people with disabilities to perform at their best. Unfortunately, traditional mindsets can hinder these opportunities, labeling alternative arrangements as “less committed.”

3. Challenges in Measuring Outcomes
In many jobs, success is measured by short-term results or visible contributions. Yet, for employees with disabilities, success might lie in maintaining stability, integrating into the team, or achieving personal growth over time. These less tangible outcomes often go unrecognized in conventional evaluations.

Why We Need to Redefine “Proper Work”
To foster successful disability employment, we must rethink the definition of “working properly.” By adopting flexible standards and inclusive values, we can better support individuals with disabilities and unlock their full potential.

1. Introducing Personalized Definitions of Proper Work
Rather than enforcing a rigid standard, workplaces should recognize individual strengths and limitations. For example, offering shorter work hours, remote work options, or other tailored solutions can help individuals thrive without unnecessary strain.

2. Evaluating the Process, Not Just the Results
Effort and progress should be valued just as much as tangible outcomes. Recognizing the journey toward improvement and adaptation can encourage individuals to continue contributing in ways that align with their abilities.

3. Creating Empathy-Driven Work Environments
Fostering understanding and empathy among team members can lead to a more supportive workplace culture. Training and awareness programs can help colleagues and managers better understand the unique needs and contributions of employees with disabilities.

How We Can Contribute
Building a more inclusive work environment is a shared responsibility. Here are three ways we can all support disability employment:

Facilitate Open Communication
Create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to share their needs, preferences, and challenges in a safe and supportive environment.

Promote Flexible Work Arrangements
Advocate for diverse work styles that accommodate various needs, from flexible hours to remote work options. This approach benefits everyone, not just employees with disabilities.

Share Success Stories
Highlight and celebrate examples of successful disability employment to inspire others and showcase the possibilities of inclusive work practices.

Conclusion: Rethinking “Proper Work”
The phrase “working properly” carries with it a wide range of expectations and assumptions. Yet, rigidly applying a universal standard can unintentionally exclude many talented individuals. By recognizing that “defining properly is difficult,” we take the first step toward creating new opportunities for inclusive and meaningful work.

I hope this article encourages reflection on what it means to “work properly” and sparks discussions on how we can redefine success in the workplace. Together, we can create a society where diverse work styles and contributions are celebrated.

What does “working properly” mean to you?
Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media. Let’s explore this topic together and shape the future of work!