We are a work obsessed society. We live in what I call a culture of distraction that is mostly work focused. In my travels to other countries, I have observed that people in many other countries are more focused on working to live a happy life.
A number of years ago, I gave a stress management workshop entitled How to Overcome Insomnia...The Workshop Guaranteed to Put You to Sleep! in Paris, France. After the workshop, I went out to get some dinner. I was amazed to see all of the people after work conversing at the cafes. People weren't running off to spend more time at the office. Couples having dinner in the restaurants would talk for hours.
Maybe this was the real French Paradox! Perhaps it wasn't just the red wine helping people to stay healthy and happy.
Do you live to work or work to live?
For corporations, the degree that each worker can find meaning in their work will be reflected in the quality of commitment and excitement (or lack of it) that is present in the workforce, and ultimately in the competitiveness of the business.
Behind the grumbling and cynicism found in most workplaces there is a longing to find true meaning and some joy or enthusiasm on the part of most individuals. We love to laugh at the cynical humor found in Dilbert, the comic strip that declares, “All people are idiots!” At a more profound level, however, we crave proof to the contrary.
When companies offer their people training and workshops designed to rekindle their enthusiasm and commitment, there is often skepticism and resistance. Participants groan about another management fad. Many positive changes may occur after such workshops, but often the change is short-lived. Traditional change efforts are only effective when they address deeper personal levels.
It is no longer sufficient to have a job; people are seeking a fuller life at work, one that is consistent with the larger focus of their lives. It is becoming more common to hear workplace discussions of “meaning,” “purpose,” “spirit” and “passion.” These ideas are now seen as a vital component of workplace satisfaction, which in turn affects performance and productivity.
As a leader, do you help create a work climate where people are healthy, happy and fully engaged?
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