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How to Find and Live Your Calling | Bryan Dik | TEDxCSU
Introduction
Many individuals aspire for their work to serve a purpose beyond just a paycheck.
This approach to work, where individuals strive for a meaningful contribution, is termed as a "calling” - a deeper sense of fulfillment and alignment with personal values rather than merely a means to an end
The Search for a Calling
In a national sample of American adults:
21% are searching for their calling in their career.
31% believe they are currently living their calling in their jobs.
Scholars are studying the implications and benefits of viewing work as a calling:
People who view their work as a calling are more confident in their career decisions
They report higher job satisfaction and engagement
Individuals find more meaning in their work and invest greater effort
Most importantly, such individuals perceive their overall life as more meaningful
The Challenge of Finding a Calling
Finding one’s calling is often not straightforward:
Some people may struggle with having multiple interests - “multi-potentiality" concept (or multiple callings) – which can create confusion about where to focus their energy and efforts
There may be societal pressures, such as needing to declare a major in college despite indecision
An "aha moment" is often sought—a clear sign of direction for one's calling
Case Study: Roger Visker's Experience
Roger Visker transitioned from being a police officer to a pastor:
Had a profound experience where he felt directed by a voice to make the transition
His wife supported him in exploring this new path
He sought guidance from five people, referred to as his "messengers"
Received valuable advice, including:
Reading "What Color Is Your Parachute"
Taking assessments and meeting with a career counselor
Engaging with current pastors
Receiving emotional support from caring individuals (encouragement and affirmation)
Modeling : All five had gone through a career change
Research on Career Decision-Making
A meta-analysis by Steve Brown and colleagues established:
Career interventions (like counseling) help individuals with career-development concerns by providing guidance, resources, and support to navigate the complexities of career transitions.
Support can significantly enhance self-efficacy and decision-making skills, leading to more satisfying career outcomes.
Effective interventions share FIVE critical ingredients:
Written Goal-Setting Exercises (e.g., from "What Color Is Your Parachute")
Individualized Feedback (from career assessments)
Up-to-Date Accurate Occupational Information (through informational interviews)
Attention to Building Support from Others (to avoid isolation in decision-making; it is best made in a vacuum)
Role-Modeling (inspired by people who have made similar career changes)
Living a Calling
Simply discerning a calling is not enough; actively living it out is essential:
Research shows that people who are actively living their calling report better satisfaction and engagement
In contrast, those who discern a calling but don't live it out may experience lower commitment and higher anxiety
Case Study: Maggie Garza's Approach
Maggie Garza, an environmental services technician, approaches her role with a sense of calling:
Dedicates herself to her job duties while expressing empathy and building relationships with patients
Plays a critical role in assisting healthcare professionals by comforting patients, often in creative ways
Understands the broader mission of the hospital, recognizing the impact of her work
Conclusion
Reflect on the metaphor of three workers breaking rocks:
The responses varied from making small pieces to earning a living, to building a cathedral
Determine what cathedral you are building through your daily work activities:
Articulate your purpose and how it aligns with making a positive impact in the world
Closing Thought
Engaging in your work meaningfully leads to experiencing the benefits of living a calling
