Enlightenment

Opus, as defined by Jung, is "work of soul." Often when people come to me unhappy in their work, it is because work does not fit them. It does not nourish soul. Our work is a reflection of who we are. But if there is a discrepancy between work and who we are, then soul suffers. It could be that we did not do "good" work or that work itself doesn't represent who we are.

When I was a stock broker, I felt essence of providing people with investment options was good. People should save and invest their money. But brokerage environment is competitive, narrow in job scope, and focused on making money for broker and firm. Just nature of commission sales compensation system can lead to concern more for size of paycheck than recommending investments that are suitable for clients. I thought there must be other work I could do that was more a reflection of who I am and would more fully utilize my talents, skills and need to express myself. I did not feel that I had a special "talent" as a stock broker; I could not stand out in industry. But I feel that I have a special talent for career consultation and coaching, and I contribute to my clients and add value to their lives. And feedback I get from universe (from having some success in this endeavor), supports that there is some truth to this assumption. This does not come from an inflated ego, but from working in two different occupations, feeling like things were not "right", and conducting a thorough self-assessment process where I was honest about my skills and abilities. I also went back to graduate school and continue to invest in learning. And as I develop my business, I am clear about my strengths and weaknesses so that I do not get pulled in directions that will not fit for me. I make conscious choices that sometimes mean sacrificing income or prestige.

Conclusion

Right livelihood is about earning your keep on this planet and doing work that supports life. According to Marsha Sinetar, "It means doing your best at what you do best." It means being proactive, honestly evaluating our options and making conscious choices. Right livelihood means contributing to our chosen work in a way that expands work itself and grows us in process.

"Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give yourself to it." Buddha

Debbie Brown is a career consultant and coach who works primarily with professionals, attorneys, and entrepreneurs.

Coping Strategies

Create a plan to nurse yourself back to health. The following lists contain steps you can take to get rest and relief from constant stress that results in burnout.

At work:

 Take it slower, take breaks from work. Leave work a little earlier.  Don't strive for perfection, but for "good enough."  Use support services effectively and delegate when possible.  Try to keep to a regular schedule, and don't be constantly available to clients.  Don't take work home with you.  Reduce your commuting time and leave driving to others by taking public transportation when possible. This also has positive affect of reducing air pollution.  Take regular vacations from work. Long weekends once a quarter are good ways to avoid burnout without taking off long stretches of time. Don't take work with you or check voice mail messages or e-mail when you are away.  If you are unhappy with your job, determine what changes are needed and develop an action plan.  Eat healthy - 3 small meals every day, including fruits and vegetables.  Exercise regularly- aerobic exercise is a great stress release.  Connect with nature daily- take a walk; eat your lunch outside in nice weather.

At home:

 Try to get 8 hours of sleep a night. We are a sleep-deprived society and this lack of sleep contributes to accidents, low productivity and mistakes.  Get help with chores. Hire a housekeeper and someone to do yard work.  Don't be a perfectionist who strives for Martha Stewart/Better Homes and Gardens look. You don't have to be a gourmet cook and live in a designer showplace to be happy.  Organize your household so burdens are spread around.  Get help with childcare.  Practice simple living techniques.  Live under your means.  Pay off your debt.  Reduce your tendency toward consumerism. Buy only what your need or cannot live without. This will reduce trips to store and save you money.  Meditate  Practice yoga or other relaxation techniques.  Listen to relaxation tapes.  Play with your children and pets. They tend to center us and get us in touch with what's important in life.  Keep a journal  Listen to music  Massages are also great ways to relax.  Take Hot Baths

Debbie Brown is a career consultant and executive coach who works primarily with professionals, attorneys and entrpreneurs.