In Search of Meaningful Work

With the unemployment rate still as high as 9.5%, many people are searching for jobs. I am praying that they either find or create meaningful work. What is meaningful work? In Outliers: The Story of Success, Malcolm Gladwell describes meaningful work as having three characteristics: autonomy, complexity, and a connection between effort and reward.

Author and speaker Daniel Pink agrees with two of the three characteristics, but has discovered some interesting research about effort and reward. He has discovered that when solving complex problems, what motivates us is not the "carrot or stick". We are driven by a sense of purpose. You can view a short video of Pink's teaching below.

I believe that meaningful work is a clear sign that we count for something – that we matter to the world. Meaningful work is a major component of human dignity. I hope that everyone will find what you were created to do.

Thinking More About Success

Since my last post, I have been thinking a lot about success. I decided to read the book Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell and found it to be fascinating research. Gladwell analyzed the lives of extremely successful lawyers, entrepreneurs, sports figures, and others to determine the ingredients of success of those he called "outliers".

Based on the book, I will summarize the formula for success as:

Success = Passion + Talent + Hardwork (10,000 hours) + Opportunity (includes when, where, and to whom you were born)

Of course, you cannot control opportunity other than to be alert enough to cease the current moment when it appears. But you can find out your passion, discover your talents and giftings, and work as hard as you can at what you love.

My 14 year old daughter has been pondering what she wants to do when she "grows up". It is difficult for her to decide because she is both creative and analytical.  I have taught her that she has a unique purpose. We are praying together for the answer. I wish I had seriously asked that question at her age. She is discovering who she is and what she likes to do now. As soon as she gets that knowing feeling in her gut, she can start working toward the 10,000 hours it takes to become an expert.

I highly recommend Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell.