I knew a lady once who always seemed uneasy in her daily work life. It wasn’t everyday, but I started to notice a trend; when things were good at the organization, then things were good with her. The same applied when things were bad. Is that ever a good place to be? Not in my book, but the former describes many workers/slaves in Corporate America.
To some it seems reasonable that work would define us. Our economic well-being, sense of belonging, need for exorcising ghosts or greed would explain much. Not to mention how many hours we spend there. I see much danger up ahead in Corporate America. Any system that creates a condition of self-imposed slavery is bound to rupture. Maybe not a unrepairable rupture, but a rupture just the same. Understand me, I’m not saying that Corporate America will cease to exist. There is a heart issue here. The death of a heart is a tragic thing. It’s the center of your universe, whether you know it or not.
So how do you avoid the trap of corporate definition? Think about the following:
- Don’t kid yourself, it won’t be easy to change. It will take hard work, but it is simple (thankfully).
- Make the decision to turn around. That may mean you choose not to gamble in Vegas or buy that new diamond.
- Remember, the organization cares about the bottom line first. Your heart is a by-the-way issue to them.
- Eventually (through retirement, downsizing or firing), the organization will ask you to step aside…no matter how great you are today.
- Start valuing (really valuing) the hidden things.
- It’s your choice! The life you create/shape will be credited to you. Make sure it breathes in eternity.