working

Working is the act of expending energy and applying effort to perform tasks or duties in exchange for compensation or as part of an activity. In physics, work is defined as the transfer of energy to an object when a force is applied over a distance; in common usage, it refers to employed or productive activity, including both paid employment and unpaid labor such as volunteering.

Historically, work organized around craft, agriculture, and later mechanized production. The industrial revolution intensified the division of labor and wage-based employment, shaping hours, skills, and career paths. In modern economies, work is mediated by labor, capital, and information markets, with productivity driven by technology, education, and infrastructure.

Work organization covers job design, scheduling, and management practices. Wages, hours, benefits, and job security influence morale and retention. Occupational health and safety aim to reduce risks, while work–life balance seeks to align professional and personal responsibilities. Remote, flexible, and autonomous arrangements are increasingly common.

Theories of work range from economic models of value and efficiency to sociological views on identity and alienation. Technology and globalization reshape tasks, creating demand for new skills and altering employment patterns. The gig economy and freelancing reflect shifts in labor rights and social protection.

Conditions vary by region due to law, culture, and development level. Policy goals often include fair wages, safety standards, retirement security, and lifelong learning to adapt to changing job requirements.