“I feel that what I do is not very significant.”
“It seems like I get very little recognition or respect for my work.”
“Sometimes I wonder why I am working in this particular job. Who cares?”
“What difference does it make? What difference do I make?”
Have you felt like this or heard others express similar statements? I know that I have had those same thoughts… especially during one of those “pity party days.”
How others perceive our job is important. But unfortunately, we sometimes rely too much on what others think about us and what we are doing.
However, as with anything else, our attitude and belief system have a great impact on our “job self-worth.” The following story demonstrates this point very well.
A traveler came upon three individuals working with stone. Curious as to what these workers were doing, the traveler approached the first worker and asked, “What are you doing?” Without the slightest hesitation, the worker replied, “I am a stone cutter and I am cutting stones.”
Still unclear of the workers’ task, the traveler approached the second worker and asked the same question. To this the second worker thought for a moment, gazed briefly at the traveler and explained, “I am a stone cutter and I am cutting stones to earn money to support my family.”
Perplexed by the two different responses, the sojourner approached the third worker and asked, “What are you doing?” Stopping for a moment, the worker stared at the stone in his hand, slowly turned to the traveler, and said, “I am a stone cutter and I AM BUILDING A CATHEDRAL!”
We, as a society, seem to place great value on “high-profile” careers. We applaud and financially reward the efforts of athletes, business executives, politicians, entertainers and others.
But we may not often acknowledge the efforts of the hotel maid who takes great pride in making the rooms clean and presentable; or the server who makes sure that our water glasses remain filled; or the comforting presence of a healthcare professional who reassures us during stressful times.
It is a great disservice to others, and to yourself, to minimize your efforts that provide a beneficial service to others. When you lift your eyes and maintain a bigger vision, like the third stone cutter, your life and your job will be enriched and more satisfying than you can imagine.
Affirmation for the Week:
“I affirm again and again: I am “building cathedrals” in my own special way. I will remember that I am doing great things and I am making a difference.”
Have a wonderful week making your own special contributions to our world!