Creating a Meaningful Work Life | #30

By Armaan Athwal

Today's Overview:

• The work-life equation of working to live or living to work

• Beyond the 9-5

• Quote of the day

The Work-Life Equation

I have recently been thinking about the saying, "working to live or living to work." It's an important question for everyone to ask themselves, as it helps direct the path you want to choose in life.

The saying suggests a choice: working just enough to enjoy life versus making work the central focus of life. However, the second option can be interpreted a bit differently.

The idea of living to work often gets a bad reputation. This concept is frequently associated with people who prioritize their careers above all else, sometimes to the detriment of their personal lives, health, and overall well-being. The negative perception comes from the belief that these individuals might miss out on the joys of life outside of work, such as spending time with family and friends, pursuing hobbies, and simply relaxing.

However, it's important to recognize that living to work doesn't have to be negative. When your work aligns with your passions and values, it can bring immense satisfaction and a sense of purpose.

Work doesn’t have to be this ever-boring thing. It can be a journey, a challenge. Eventually, work can become more than just a typical job; it can be something you love and look forward to every day.

Think about it like this: some people aim to work just enough to retire and enjoy the beachside. But, to truly love your work, you need to earn it. This often means investing time and effort into finding or creating a career that aligns with your passions and values.

So, ask yourself: Are you working to live or living to work? And if the latter, how can you make that work something you genuinely enjoy and feel passionate about? How can you make work a fulfilling part of your life? It might take time and effort, but the rewards of loving what you do every day are worth it.

Beyond the 9-5

When we think about work, most of us picture a typical 9-5 job. But work doesn’t necessarily have to fit that mold; it can be a significant, fulfilling part of your life that you truly love.

However, this kind of work has to be earned. Often, it involves putting in those 9-5 hours for many, many years and planning meticulously to eventually break free. With the right approach, work can transform into something much more exciting and personal, such as:

• A community project

• Volunteering for a cause you care about

• Creating your own business

• Joining a startup

• Pursuing a creative endeavor like writing or art

• Teaching or mentoring others

• Developing a product or service that solves a problem

• Traveling and working remotely in various locations

The key is to use your 9-5 experience as a stepping stone. Learn as much as you can, save and invest wisely, and build a network of contacts. All these elements will help you transition into work that is more aligned with your passions and interests.

It’s also crucial to stay patient and persistent. The journey to meaningful work is rarely straightforward. There will be setbacks and challenges, but each step forward brings you closer to your goal. Keep refining your skills, stay open to new opportunities, and never stop exploring what truly makes you happy.

In the end, whether you're working to live or living to work, the ultimate aim is to find what will fulfill you.

Quote of the Day

“Most people chase success at work, thinking that will make them happy. The truth is that happiness at work will make you successful.” - Alexander Kjerulf

Make what you do in life your happiness project.