The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos
Stop Looking for the Perfect Job - a "Good Enough Job" is Just Fine
Jan 23, 2023
Simone Stolzoff, the author of The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work, dives into the pitfalls of over-identifying with our jobs. He discusses how societal pressures lead us to equate our worth with professional achievements, advocating instead for a ‘good enough job’ that allows for a more balanced life. Stolzoff explores the historical context of 'workism' and its effects on personal identity, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing well-being and play over relentless career pursuits.
31:34
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Quick takeaways
- Workism can have negative consequences, such as neglecting other aspects of life and increasing the risk of burnout and stress.
- Investing too much in work as the primary source of purpose and fulfillment can lead to a loss of diverse sources of meaning and a limited sense of self.
Deep dives
The Danger of Workism and Overemphasis on Jobs as Identities
Many people view their jobs as a reflection of their identities and find meaning and purpose in their work. However, this concept of work as a deep part of our identity, known as workism, can have negative consequences. Work-centric existence can cause neglect of other aspects of life, such as relationships, health, and hobbies. It can also increase the risk of burnout and stress. The idea of finding the perfect job as a means of self-actualization can lead to disappointment and feelings of unfulfillment. It is important to recognize that work is just one part of who we are and to invest in other sources of identity and meaning outside of work.
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