Summary

This episode of "Coping" covers different ways people view work, based on Professor Amy Rizinski's research framework. Kathy and Kevin Deegan explore three primary perspectives: work as a job (focused on paycheck), work as a career (focused on advancement), and work as a calling (focused on meaning and fulfillment). The conversation delves into how societal changes have led to people seeking more purpose in their daily work activities. The speakers share personal experiences, including Kevin's journey from working at a pizza parlor to pursuing education, and Kathy's evolution from teaching to finding a greater calling. They emphasize the importance of identifying one's mindset towards work and discuss strategies for discovering one's vocation, including the need to pause and reflect.

Highlights

Introduction to Different Views of Work

Kathy and Kevin introduce the topic of how people view work differently, highlighting three main perspectives: as a paycheck, as a career ladder to climb, or as a vocation/calling. They emphasize the importance of understanding one's view of work to determine future direction.

Work as a Paycheck Perspective

The discussion explores the traditional view of work as means of survival. Kevin shares personal experience working at a pizza parlor in Los Angeles while pursuing acting. They discuss how the paycheck mindset can sometimes conflict with pursuing meaningful work and how focusing solely on money can create a false sense of security.

Career-Oriented Mindset

The discussion continues, examining work as a career, focusing on advancement and professional growth. Kathy shares her journey through education, including obtaining a master's degree in English education and spending 15 years in the education field before seeking greater impact.

Understanding Calling and Vocation

The conversation explores the concept of calling, tracing its etymology to the Latin 'vocatio'. They discuss how the concept has evolved from being exclusively religious to becoming more broadly applicable, emphasizing the connection between finding one's voice and discovering one's calling.

Practical Advice for Finding Your Calling

The speakers provide practical guidance for discovering one's vocation, emphasizing the importance of pausing to reflect and listen to one's life. They discuss balanced approaches to career changes and conclude with Kate Bowler's blessing for when the road is long.