Philosophy & Resources
Work that aligns with our true selves can lead to deep satisfaction and a sense of purpose in our lives.
The following core beliefs serve as a foundation for services offered by Heart At Work:
1. A full life incorporates connection, balance and mindfulness. When we lose connection to self, others, nature or purpose, we diminish our work and life balance. “Paying attention” fosters an inner and outer focus to our lives.
2. Work is often the arena in which individuals explore larger issues in life. Noticing patterns that repeatedly present themselves at work and that no longer serve us is often key to resolving work-related dilemmas. When work presents a spiritual challenge, there are specific characteristics associated with it. Understanding these characteristics helps to shape our response to the challenge, and move through it more effectively.
3. We hold within us an awareness of our authentic work in the world for any stage or time in our life. This awareness becomes blurred when our resources are depleted or when we become attached to a particular outcome. Time and attention devoted to self-care, reflection, and focused questions allow this inner knowing to take shape and emerge.
4. Quarterlife may be a time of facing into greater responsibility (but with less guidance) than in high school or college. Overwhelmed by options, young adults are often confronted with decisions about work, finances, living situations, and relationships—perhaps for the first time. The intense pressure of this time may cause some to feel anxious, doubtful, or indecisive. With a better understanding of oneself, an individual can make smarter decisions about career options.
5. Midlife and the Second Half of Life represent a life stage when we experience restlessness or a compelling desire for change and greater meaning. Midlife and Second Half of Life work transitions often incorporate competencies and skills that have been developed over time and, when combined, result in a great sense of satisfaction. This can also be a time to re-discover interests or abilities that have been forgotten, discounted or neglected.
A sample of recommended books that support the ideas described above:
Crossing the Unknown Sea: Work As A Pilgrimage of Identity by David Whyte
A Hidden Wholeness by Parker Palmer
The Extraordinary Healing Power of Ordinary Things by Larry Dossey, MD
Work With Passion in Midlife and Beyond by Nancy Anderson
Do What You Are by Paul and Barbara Tieger
Encore: Finding Work That Matters in the Second Half of Life by Marc Freedman
The Third Chapter: Passion, Risk and Adventure in the 25 Years After 50 by Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot
