I’m reading an interesting book right now, “Good Work: Reclaiming Your Inner Ambition” by Paul Millerd.
I’ve now finished the first five chapters; I’ve been thinking long and hard about my definition of “good work.” Here’s a great question to think about “good work:”
- What’s lighting a fire in your soul?
I’ve started to take a few notes on what “good work” looks like; check out this list:
- Good work is work worth doing.
- Good work is work you care about.
- Good work is work that matters.
- Good work is work that makes you come alive.
- Good work is work that lights you up.
- Good work is work that nourishes your soul.
- Good work is work that utilizes your gifts.
- Good work is work that you are called to do.
- Good work is work that is unique to you.
- Good work is work that energizes you and provides sustainable energy.
- Good work is work that’s something worth fighting for.
- Good work is work that requires trade-offs and sacrifice.
- Good work is work that doesn’t necessarily have to generate income.
- Good work is work that can be unconventional and uncomfortable, at first.
- Good work is work that doesn’t suck.
Reflecting back, I had several instances where I had the opportunity to do “good work” at the University of Delaware, the College of New Jersey, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. And now, in retirement, I’m definitely engaged in “good work” with Life Design Catalyst work.
One of the quotes from the book I really like is: “Finding good work is a personal journey, one that you must go through in your own way.”
My question to you: Are you currently engaged in “good work,” as defined by any of the attributes listed above? If so, great; if not, what do you need to do more “good work?” Have fun with this!