My friend Jess runs an excellent programme on Happiness at Work, one element of which is the discussion around the difference between a job, a career and a calling.
Not just a job
I’ve always loved my work in coaching and facilitation, and while it is the way I make my living I’m not punching the clock. It isn’t just a “job”, I love it!
Nor do I see it as a career. I’m not trying to be CEO of something, build a huge company or dominate a market. I certainly don’t want to ever be employed by anyone again as it would be painful for both parties! So, not a career then.
A “calling”?
That leaves me with “calling”. Is it that? Doesn’t quite fit. I don’t see it as my life’s goal or calling to train leaders to inspire or managers to delegate effectively.
Confused. Feels like I’m falling between the cracks of the definitions.
“Soldier On”
Then I spent some of 2018 acting in a play called “Soldier On” with military veterans some of whom suffer from PTSD. It was an amazing experience. Each of the “civilian” actors mentored a veteran. We toured and then did an extended run in London to packed houses, great reviews and, perhaps most satisfying, standing ovations pretty much every night. The charity that this was part of – The Soldier’s Arts Academy – engaged with Prince Harry’s charity Endeavour, and I was part of the team that designed and delivered a workshop for serving veterans who were planning a subsequent career in the Arts.
The play is over but my connection and work with The Soldier’s Arts Academy lives on. I continue to mentor my veteran, helping him with his housing and supporting him when he is emotionally fragile.
I have spent nearly half the year working for nothing. It was very time consuming. I didn’t get a promotion, I didn’t become master of anything, I just used what I had to help a group of people who needed it.
And I want to keep doing it.
I think I’ve been called!
Job, career, calling … where are you?
David Solomon
Managing Director, Sun and Moon Training
@SunMoonDavid
Photo copyright: The Soldier’s Arts Academy