Why does a work place define you?

“Labor is the axis of human self-making”, Catholic theologian Gregory Baum.??Americans, arguably more than other modern societies, both establish and recognize ourselves in our work.??A common question asked when meeting someone new amongst Americans is, “what do you do for (living)?”.??This may surprise people from other countries but one’s work is what drives a lot of American’s self.??I believe that when one finds a work place that provides learning, an inclusive place for belonging, a place where “Global in scope and human in scale” is not just a tag line but an aspiration that is constantly being strived for it results in providing one with a sense of purpose and meaning.??

As years go by working at an organization whose mission aligns with your core principals, a place where one has “grown up” and is able to do good, create an impact – it becomes a home and a part of their being.??When such a scenario comes to untimely end it could bring with it a myriad of emotions – from feeling betrayed to anger and frustration.??It is easy to go down the path seeking answer to the question, “what did I do wrong?”.??I learned during my #transition (amazing rebranding – but that’s for another article) with help of amazing #mentors who were my cheerleaders, my guides providing sage advice and invaluable support that transitions are common in modern work place and simply an opportunity to catapult into the next amazing adventure.??While it is always good to contemplate ways to improve oneself, usually it is just time.??Time for one to evolve to another opportunity that may be a better mutual fit.??Time to see challenge oneself in new environment, new culture, new organization. Time for change. I have learned so much at my previous employer from some of the best #human beings and inspirational #leaders in the world. I hope to carry forward those learnings into all aspects of my life.

In retrospect this summer ended up being a good time for reexamining many aspects of my life, #career, and opportunity to spend with time with family and friends.??My mom would say, “Bhagavan (aka God) always does things for a reason”.??I do not know Bhagavan’s master plan but I do believe in the notion that there are opportunities to seize all around us.??If we are open to new opportunities and willing to seize them the journey will be amazing.