Episode 2 | The Myth of Work-Life Balance with David Bahnsen
Dec 13, 2023
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David Bahnsen, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group, discusses the myth of work-life balance, a doctrine of vocation, navigating career choices and faith principles, exploring the complexity of college education, addressing financial challenges faced by younger generations, morning routines for productivity in business, and redefining work-life balance.
Recognize the value of work as a calling and means to meet human needs.
Apply Christian beliefs in different fields, including finance, through the concept of sphere sovereignty.
Deep dives
The Importance of Having a High View of Vocation
Author David Bonson emphasizes the significance of having a high view of vocation in the Christian faith. Rather than having a low view of work, Christians should recognize the value of their calling. Bonson explains that finance, in particular, should be seen as a means to an end, which is meeting human needs through productive exchanges in the marketplace. He discusses how he combines his expertise in finance with his passion for helping people in real-life situations. Additionally, he discusses the influence of his father, a pastor, and his decision to pursue a career in business, seeing it as a way to apply his Christian beliefs in a different field.
The Importance of Kuiper's View of Work
Bonson explains Abraham Kuiper's view of work, considering him as the second Calvin who introduced a Christian worldview applied to all areas of life. He highlights Kuiper's concept of sphere sovereignty, which distinguishes the different domains of state, church, and family within society. This view emphasizes the lordship of Christ and the idea that no aspect of life is outside his authority. Bonson relates this to his own father's approach to applying Christian beliefs to his work and sees his own work in finance as an extension of the same principles.
The Meaning and Dignity of Work
Bonson discusses the theological, cultural, and ontological significance of work and challenges the idea of work-life balance. He argues against the notion that work is a separate and lesser part of life, emphasizing that work is an integral part of our identity and purpose as human beings. He stresses that work should not be seen as a nuisance or a means to an end, but rather as an opportunity to express our creativity, productivity, and innovation. Bonson also reflects on the importance of understanding work in the context of economics and the dignity that comes from engaging in meaningful work.
College and Vocation
Bonson explores the role of college in finding a vocation and addresses the debates around its value and affordability. He argues against a one-size-fits-all approach and emphasizes the need for individual assessment based on passions, skills, resources, and desired outcomes. While acknowledging the importance of some professions requiring formal education, Bonson also highlights the value of entrepreneurial fields and risk-taking. He urges a balanced consideration of the cost-benefit analysis, recognizing that the credentialing system and the economic model of higher education may need reevaluation.
In this episode, Michael interviews David Bahnsen, who oversees $4 billion in assets as the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group.
They discuss the myth of work-life balance, a doctrine of vocation, and much more.