The Non-Obvious Show · Episode 53
Finding Your Calling In Work and Life
with Christopher Wong Michealson and Jennifer Tosti-Kharas
In This Episode
In this episode, the conversation explores the concept of meaningful work, its definitions, and the impact of technology on the workplace. Philosophers and psychologists discuss the importance of understanding who benefits from our work, the pressures of finding a calling, and the cultural perspectives that shape our views on work. The discussion also touches on the implications of automation and the need for a societal perspective on meaningful work.
Key Takeaways
- The more interaction with beneficiaries increases work meaningfulness.
- Non-obvious beneficiaries can enhance the perception of work value.
- Not everyone needs to find a calling to lead a meaningful life.
- Cultural upbringing influences our views on work.
- The pandemic highlighted the importance of essential workers.
- Technology can both displace and create new job opportunities.
- Meaningful work should be considered a human right.
- Work can contribute to the good life, but definitions vary.
- The classification of work as essential can impact self-worth.
- Exploring different career paths can lead to unexpected callings.
What We Cover
- 00:00The Quest for Meaningful Work
- 11:40Defining Work and Its Value
- 23:29The Impact of Technology on Work
- 35:17Cultural Perspectives on Work
About The Guests
Christopher Wong Michaelson holds the Koch Endowed Chair in Business Ethics at the University of St. Thomas and also teaches at NYU's Stern School of Business. He co-wrote Is Your Work Worth It? with Jennifer Tosti-Kharas and researches what makes work meaningful.
christopherwongmichaelson.com ↗Jennifer Tosti-Kharas is professor of management at Babson College, where she holds the Camilla Latino Spinelli Endowed Term Chair, and co-author of Is Your Work Worth It? She researches meaningful work, careers and the idea of work as a calling.
hachettebookgroup.com ↗
