“My parents slept together 22 years ago and now I have to work” said the tweet sent to me by a certain someone. I instantly picked up the phone and talked her into going to work on Wednesday. On Thursday, she sent a text, “I don’t agree with you. There’s nothing good about going to work.” While I acknowledged the underlying dissatisfaction with her present place of work, I had to correct some erroneous thoughts:

• Work is optional – In fact, work produces progress. Without work, we leave nothing of value for the next generation. We would have built no roads, houses, amenities, or civilizations. Work produces value – whether it is crafting, selling a product, or building a road. The value produced may be tangible such as monetary or intangible like a legacy. In addition, work delivers both personal fulfillment and monetary reward.
• Work must be fun – The fact that you get up in the morning to create value is the joy of work. Whether it is gutting fish at a local farmer’s market, bagging groceries, or teaching unruly kids, find joy in the value you deliver. Work professionally. Provide quality. Create value.
• Work takes over your entire life – Work is a command of God but so is rest. It is your responsibility to balance your work and play. Don’t get buried under an avalanche of work; find time to chase a butterfly.

Given that work in of itself is good, if you don’t like your job, find work that gives you joy. Today, there’s plenty to choose from – influencer, fashion shopper, teacher, tailor, marine biologist… As Marc Anthony said, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

#leadershipbeginsathome, #leaddaily, #lifeleadership, #abiadegboye