The Work — Searching for a Life That Matters
Wes Moore, in his book “The Work“, delivers a shot of inspiration for those of us searching for a life that matters. As a matter of fact, part of this book is Moore’s autobiographical account of his search for a life that matters. The other parts are autobiographical account’s of 7 other workers who’s stories will amaze you:
- Daniel Lubetzky – CEO of KIND LLC (KIND bars)
- Joe Manko – Principal, Liberty Elementary School
- John Galina – Co-Founder, Purple Heart Homes
- Dale Beatty – Co-Founder, Purple Heart Homes
- Esther Benjamin – Peace Corps
- Cara Aley – Co-Founder, American MoJo
- Michael Hancock – Mayor of Denver, Colorado
Through reading The Work some of the questions you will be forced to ask yourself are:
If money wasn’t a factor, what might you be inspired to create?
How could being more outgoing– introducing yourself to a stranger, inviting a coworker you don’t know very well to lunch– help increase your chance of success?
If you were as successful as you could possibly imagine, what would you do to give back? How would you incorporate charitable giving into a “not-for profit-only” business model?
Is there something you’re holding back from professionally because you don’t feel ready?
What have failures in your own past taught you, and how can you use those lessons in your next project?
Is there a way to add a social dimension to whatever work you’re doing, even if your primary goal is to make money?
How do your deepest values flow into your work?
The reality Moore leaves us with in this book is that “How we spend our days is how we spend our lives.” So in our search for a life that matters we must start with a daily goal of “doing good and giving back.” Next, we have to “find the place where we can do the most to help.”
I give this book 5 out 5 stars without question. Everyone won’t be a social entrepreneur, teacher, soldier, or join the Peace Corps, but everyone can give something back. Read this book to jump start your journey to give back.