Why Do You Do What You Do?

Do you have a job or is it a calling? That’s an easy answer for some and a tricky one for others.

A job is simple. You show up on time, you complete your assigned tasks, collect your nominal paycheck and clock out for the day. Your job ends until the next day.

A calling is something that is organic – it is a part of who you are. A calling defines your WHY in this life. It is the act of fulfilling what you were created to do. You were put on this Earth for a purpose, and it’s only when you discover your true calling – that purpose can begin to unfold.

Don’t get me wrong. Making a living is necessary – especially if you have a family to support. Since most of us spend the majority of our days on the job, why not find a way to make a difference while making a living?

Robert Neelly Bellah so wisely put it, “To make a real difference, there would have to be a re-appropriation of the idea of vocation or calling, a return to the idea of work as a contribution to the good of all and not merely as a means to one’s own advancement.”

Work as a contribution to the good of all…those are some powerful words.

I challenge you to examine your life. The job you are in right now – what impact are you making? What impact could you make if you stepped into a new role? Do you do it for yourself or is there an opportunity to serve others in the process?

My daughter asked me last week in an interview for a final project, “Why do you do what you do?”

My response was simple, “Because when I look at people, I see inside each a solution to problems in our world today, and I cannot help but want to reveal those solutions to that person & then introduce that person to those that need them.”

Our lives are surrounded by so many choices – so many possible directions we could go, but it’s time for us to take control of the ship. Listen to our inner compass and guide our own path. The world is so in need of what we have to offer. It’s time we grab hold and run after our calling and watch the impact we make!