Philosophy & Resources
“Work shapes our sense of self.”
The following core beliefs serve as a foundation for Heart At Work services:
1. A full life incorporates connection, balance and mindfulness. When we lose connection to self, others, nature or purpose, we diminish the sense of work and life balance in our lives. 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 no longer serve the individual 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 more effectively move through it.
3. Individuals hold within them the knowledge of their authentic work in the world for any stage or time in their life. This knowledge becomes blurred when an individual’s resources are depleted or when he or she becomes attached to a particular outcome. Time and attention devoted to self-care and reflection allow this inner knowing to take shape and emerge.
4. Quarterlife may be a time when individuals face greater responsibility (but with less guidance) than they had 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 individuals experience restlessness or a compelling desire for change. This change might be linked to work and a desire to make a greater contribution to the world. 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 for a long time.
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
