@ Lisa – I couldn’t have said it better myself! I often feel like we are mind twins as well, so I’m glad you enjoyed the post. :)

In my work I repeatedly see this bottom line, basic human craving to be of value, to make a difference and know that one’s work, one’s life, matters, period. What routinely, predictably steps in the way of that desire and putting it into action is fear, the building block of stuck “mental models,” to borrow Senge’s terminology. Stuck perspectives. When fear augurs in over time, it usually morphs into cynicism and we now conveniently never have to face the challenge of altering the status quo, or dropping our facades and posturing for the discomfort of personal growth.

And, as it follows, we also never get a taste of marrying our passions to our livelihoods.

I would definitely argue that after basic human needs are met, the desire for an integrated, fully lived life — the alignment of purpose and vision — is top of the list.

But here’s the deal, my POV: conscious choice. If I wake up one day and notice something’s not right in my life, and I want something else, something different…and I don’t follow that awareness, that craving–that’s selling out. Settling. No matter if all I want is to be a bank teller in a bigger bank with better benefits. Once I am awake to the desire and still refuse the call, it’s like settling for emotional dissonance, the tectonic plates that chip away at my soul.

2 cents

@ Milena – The answer to question one is all over this blog.. but maybe I will write a condensed version – something like, how to get your dream job. Anyway, the ultra short version is I came to Madison and knew no one. I came to study journalism, but ended up studying design and environmental studies instead. Neither of which I use presently except in principles.

To answer question two, I’m talking about achieving big dreams without losing your mind. You’re right. Big difference. Maybe I should title the next post how to get your dream job, and survive.

To be clear, I want it all too, but I know you can’t have it all at once. Those are words of wisdom from my mom, and she’s always right ;) .

Thanks again, for the great insight.

@ Angela – Oh, trust me. I know all about flow. I have this thing about entering data, and I really, really enjoy it. It’s strange, I know. And completely geeky. But me and Access, we’re good friends.

This is less about achieving flow though, and more about how the things you’re doing to achieve that flow fit into a larger picture. I don’t love everything about my job. In fact, I dislike a lot of it. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything. That’s the point. Life and work aren’t easy. It’s about knowing that and loving it anyway. And I’m going to say that we may not all be destined to make real change, but if you want to, you’ll be able to. Thanks for your comment!