avatarBruce S. Noll, CPC

Summary

The author emphasizes that one's identity is not defined solely by their occupation, advocating for a deeper understanding of individuals beyond their professional roles.

Abstract

The article "My J.O.B" delves into the philosophical distinction between one's occupation and one's true identity. The author asserts that while work is an integral part of life, it does not encapsulate the entirety of a person's being. The piece challenges societal norms of defining people by their jobs, suggesting that more meaningful connections can be made by inquiring about personal character rather than professional achievements. It calls for recognition of the multifaceted nature of individuals, acknowledging that a person's essence is better discovered through shared experiences and relationships rather than through their career. The author encourages readers to embrace the complexity of their identities and to find gratitude in both their personal growth and professional endeavors.

Opinions

  • The author believes that defining oneself solely through work is a superficial 'Jactitation Of Being' (J.O.B).
  • It is expressed that asking "who are you?" is more significant than asking "what do you do?" to truly understand a person.
  • The article suggests that knowing someone's job title provides only a fragmented view of their identity.
  • The author posits that genuine knowledge of a person comes from living, walking, loving, and being with them, not from understanding their professional role.
  • There is a call to action for readers to engage in 'Collaborative Lifelong Learning' to build and live a meaningful life, implying that collective growth is more fulfilling than individual achievement.
  • The author's perspective is that life is enriched by embracing one's full self, including but not limited to one's job, and that this holistic approach brings greater peace and gratitude.

My J.O.B

It’s what I do, it’s not who I am

(Photo by author)

I am more than my work though my work is in me. It is not me. It’s a Jactitation Of Being. I rise, I work, I perform tasks.

This is not me. You might say hello, I respond, hello. We ask, “what do you do?” I wonder why instead we don’t ask “who are you?” And when we are asked, we often answer with what we do.

Wouldn’t you rather know me instead of what I do? Do you think you will know me by knowing what I do? Perhaps, but not likely. For I am, we are More than what we do, yes?

If you knew what I did You’d only know a piece of me, but you would not know the whole of who I am. To know that You must live alongside me,

Walk with me Love with me Be with me For I am not my J.O.B.

I am not what I do I am a living paradox And, I am me not a piece of me. Let us live in peace with who we are and be grateful for what we get to do.

“Please join me in Building and Living a Life That Matters for the need is great, life is often short, and the reward is definitely greater than the risk.” — B. Stuart Noll

Another piece of collaborative learning can be experienced here:

Jobs
Gratitude
Work
Life
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