As we close out the summer, I hope you had an enjoyable holiday weekend!  While we don’t often think about the back story, Labor Day is thanks to all the workers who toiled before us. Apparently back in 1882, labor unions decided that workers needed a break and planned a march in NYC (unpaid) to have their efforts acknowledged.

Many of us work hard at home (often unpaid) and in our professions (hopefully paid) without receiving the recognition, credit or appreciation we deserve. We do it for the money, but mostly for the meaning. Yet often our work can be thankless and only recognized by our paycheck or income. Is that enough?

LABOR OF LOVE

What if our work was truly a reflection of what we cared about? That our labor was not in vain, but instead contributed to something meaningful. If our efforts mattered and made a positive impact on the world, not to mention bringing us more fulfillment and purpose.

This is my wish for all of us. That our work feels more like play. Sure, we have to put in some effort, to build our skills, grow and adapt to change both personally and professionally. But, what if we made conscious choices about how we directed our time, energy and effort? What would that look like?

More importantly, how would that feel? Can you imagine if your labors and work felt like love? That’s the world I choose to live in and I want for you. While it may not be easy (and few things that are worthwhile ever are), I do believe it’s possible.

WHAT WOULD LOVE DO?

If I haven’t shared a wonderful resource, I truly enjoy Elizabeth Gilbert’s latest endeavor, called Letters from Love.  You’re likely familiar with her from Eat, Pray, Love fame and one of my favorite books, Big Magic.  She has been through so many evolutions and now shares her reflections on connecting with her inner wisdom as she asks “love” for advice to guide her.

It’s such a beautiful concept to listen to your heart and choose grace over self-denigration and all the other ways we berate and beat ourselves up over what we have or haven’t done.  No more. Instead of ruthless striving, we can actually choose to be compassionate and kind to ourselves.

So as you contemplate the rest of your week and the fast-paced onslaught of fall and cooler weather, consider how you can bring more love and compassion into your labors.  What would working with love look and feel like for you? I’d love to hear.

And of course, if you want a little support for finding more joy, then you know where to find me. My greatest desire is to empower high achieving conscious leaders like you to create the fulfilling life and meaningful work of your dreams. May all your work days feel like holidays!