I Love My Work!

I Love My Work!, by Teresa Thomas-Carroll, facilitator

It's the month of love and we're thinking of those we hold close in our hearts. Let's add a twist to this love tonic and consider what endears us about our work, whether it's a paid job or what we consider to be our life's purpose.

Like a long-term personal relationship, we might have gotten stuck in unfulfilling patterns, begun to take what we have for granted or forgotten what made our hearts race in the beginning when we were first drawn to this work. Aspects that originally felt exhilarating and challenging, we may now think of as obtrusive and difficult. By simply reframing how we view our work, we can rekindle the motivation for what we do. I even find that when I have a positive outlook on my tasks rather than a sense of drudgery, I become more efficient and satisfied with my results.

Last month's issue focused on regaining clarity for our vision. Ever since I've started getting back into focus, the lyrics "Falling In Love Again..." have been running through my mind. As I come back to my vision, I'm rediscovering everything I love about my work and getting back to my core passions. Things are feeling easier, fun and exciting again.

I hope that you'll take some time this month to think about what and who you love and why.

Use the mini-reflection exercise to reflect on what you love about your work.

Mini-Reflection Exercise

What part of your work gets your heart beating a little faster (in a good way)?

How often do you get to experience the parts of your work that bring you joy? (If you regularly experience joy, take time to savor and recognize it when it happens. If the things you really love about your work are few and far between, schedule in something that brings a similar feeling.)

What can you do for yourself that will recognize the love you bring to your work? (Flowers for your workspace may be cliche but are lovely nonetheless!)