As we begin a new year, perhaps it is a good time to reflect on what we are about and what difference it makes in the coming year. Do you consider your profession a job, a career, or a calling? In Tomorrowmind: Thriving at Work with Resilience, Creativity, and Connection , the authors [i] cite a 1997 study of workplace attitudes by psychologists Amy Wrzesniewski, Clark McCauley, Paul Rozin, and Barry Schwartz that showed that people view their work as either a job, a career, or a calling. A job is focused on financial rewards and necessity. Jobs are means to the end of enjoying life outside of work. You quit when you find better pay. A career is focused on professional advancement. Those of us with careers feel pride in our professional accomplishments and elevated social standing. You quit when the promotions stop, or you retire. A calling is focused on fulfilling work. You feel called to do socially or morally valuable work. You keep at it...
Comments from a Christ-follower on things that matter to him