| Meaningful work is an important part of life. We love to work hard doing things that nourish us, that generate meaning, purpose, energy and excitement, that we’re looking forward to doing, where we see there’s a bigger reason behind what we’re doing, where we feel like it’s a pure expression of something inside of us that’s yearning to get out. When we get to do that effort, we come alive. I am very grateful for the opportunities that I have been given within my career, working for a company with an inspiring mission, supported by an amazing boss, and surrounded by colleagues I consider family. My job provides for my family, gives me flexibility I need as a Mother, and allows me to live the life I dreamed of. However, since becoming a Mother, my identity and priorities have shifted causing me to reevaluate my life and career purpose. I can’t ignore the feeling that something feels misaligned, not being able to express my full self and feel fulfilled each day. Within in my recent journey towards more meaningful work, I have realized I have been limiting myself to looking for meaning only in the thing that I get paid to do. Work is anything that asks you to invest meaningful effort over a sustained period of time. The notion of meaningful work does not only come from your job but can also come from ways that have nothing to do with a paycheck. One of the best ways to find meaningful work is through your leisure pursuits. You do not get paid to do this but you would spend hours and hours on it. Some people may get paid for these activities, but you are getting paid in a different way through the feeling that it gives you to express this thing, which is part of you, and brings you joy and purpose. Leisure pursuits can take form of hobbies such as cooking, running, or painting. I love to take part in fitness activities, from running to hiking or taking an Orangetheory class. It is my happy place, my hobby, that brings me joy and allows me to express my fullest self. There are trainers, athletes, professional runners who do this for a living but I do it for the feeling it leaves me with every time. More recently I have taken this a bit further, starting this blog allowing me to share my love for all things health and wellness with others, hoping to inspire and teach others all that I have learned along the way. This brings me greater purpose and fulfillment each day, even if it does not pay my bills. What do you find yourself doing in your free time that brings you joy? The other form of meaningful work that we do not get paid to do includes the roles or responsibilities we take on, that we often say yes to, that bring us joy or fulfillment outside of what we are getting paid for. We say yes to these roles or responsibilities simply because of the purpose it provides us with. Some examples include volunteering in the community, taking care of a pet, being a caregiver, or being a stay at home Mom. Being a stay at home Mom is the hardest job around, yet Moms are not getting paid for all the work they do. This responsibility gives us payback in the form of full expression and vitality. My role as a Mother has given me more purpose and joy than I could have ever imagined. I would do anything for my kids without ever getting anything in return. What roles do you take on in life outside your job that bring you greater purpose in life? The last form of meaningful work to consider comes from learning pursuits. Often times we’re really passionate about something, there is something that really lights us up or fascinates us, that drives us to do more of it at a higher level or develop skills around it, or make it more applicable to get us to a level that we are qualified enough to turn it into a job. When you spend time learning in a way that is aligned with your interest and an expression of you, it becomes a powerful channel for you to come alive. This takes form in my life around health and wellness. My passion towards all things health and wellness has me constantly seeking ways to learn more through podcasts, reading, or certifications. I often find myself up way past my bedtime reading articles online or taking a walk at lunch just to listen to a podcast about an interesting topic. Yes, the intensive learning process is work, but to me it is enjoyable work. What do you find yourself wanting to learn more about, so much you may even daydream about making it into your career some day? The beautiful thing about this is that if you are struggling to find fulfillment in one or more areas of work, whatever circumstance you are dealing with in your life, you can look to the other types of work to fill your cup and find the light to express yourself fully. As I continue exploring what next in my career, I will spend a little more time in the other areas of work that allow me to fully express myself, give me purpose, and so much joy. For now, when not on the clock, you can find me in a fitness class, writing my blog, or chasing my kids at the park. Chief Mom Officer, ME |
Hello,
I’m Kori
Welcome to my cozy corner for all of the strong mamas who feel overwhelmed and are struggling to find space for their health and wellness, to learn how to take back time and become the best version of themselves in motherhood. Follow along as I share strategies around creating space for YOU in your busy schedule, building simple healthy habits and routines into your daily life, and navigating the real-life challenges of motherhood.
Let’s connect
Subscribe today!
Stay updated with the latest blog posts.
Raising Boys n Barbells 
Leave a comment