Recently, a colleague forwarded an article to me describing some pretty dismal circumstances in the workplace today. Although, I'm sure that the author finds "meaning" in writing about why people should not expect meaning from their work or in their workplaces, I personally believe that it is our personal responsibility and each of us has the capacity to discover meaning in our work and everyday lives, regardless of the circumstances. Indeed, I'm sure that Mr. Kersten's former student (referred to in his article) would be able to find deeper meaning from her selling a remedy for irritable bowel syndrome if she practiced the principles in my book, Prisoners of Our Thoughts: Viktor Frankl's Principles at Work. In my personal and professional opinion, and contrary to Mr. Kersten's assertion, I don't think that shooting for "worthwhile" is enough!
Christopher Kenny of Star Group Consulting shared his thoughts with me after reading the article:
"I noted the author said, “Employees should not demand that companies imbue their lives with meaning.” He’s absolutely correct!! Employers CAN’T “imbue” meaning for anyone – as Frankl said and as you point out in your book, that’s a PERSONAL responsibility. Anyone looking for the employer to provide meaning is abdicating his or her personal responsibility. No wonder an individual who expects that from his or her employer winds up disappointed – they’re looking in the wrong place!!"
I would add to this that employers also have a personal (and collective) responsibility to create an environment wherein the search for meaning is supported. As you suggested, this is both good for business and for everything around them. And, of course, it supports their own search for meaning--what goes around comes around.
This said, I find that too many people wait for meaning to be brought to them rather than take personal responsibility for finding it or for co-creating a meaningful workplace/environment. In my experience, it is "meaning" that drives "passion" that drives "innovation." This is, in fact, the mental model used by The Innovation Group.
How are you taking personal responsibility to find meaning in your work day-to-day and co-create a meaningful workplace?
Meaning-fully,
Alex
Alex Pattakos, Ph.D.
author, Prisoners of Our Thoughts
founder, Center for Meaning
Santa Fe, NM USA www.themeaningdifference.com
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