Many years ago I read Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? by Seth Godin. It should be read by anyone entering their working years. Probably more relevant than ever.
The thing is, whether its machines or cheap labor we all are competing for work. Godin was the first person I heard explain how government schools are designed to create conformity and limit creativity. Reading this book opened by eyes to a new way of viewing work.
Using emotional energy in ANY job whether you are cleaning tables in a coffee shop, writing code, or fixing plumbing issues. Being human and caring are things that are hard to find because it takes work.
Doing good work in and of itself is rewarding. Phoning it in is not.
Great book.