Review of Work Reimagined

Work Reimagined

Subtitle: Uncover Your Calling

By Richard J. Leider and David A. Shapiro

I usually read fiction – and seldom the self-help genre. This book was recommended by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) website – so I thought it was going to be about careers changes – but it was much broader than that.

This book defines “calling” as the inner urge to give away our gifts – or as the blending of our gifts, passions and values. It is about finding fulfillment through “work”. It had some stimulating insights and thought-provoking ideas. The concept of the urge to give away one’s gifts resonated with me.

I read this book because I have been working a job that meets many of my needs on many levels (and has much to offer) – but that I can’t continue for the rest of my working days because it is too demanding physically. So I need to look for or plan for something to do next.

There are a few ways in which I found the book lacking. To some extent, the book implies that we have just one calling – and all we have to do is find it. What if we have many interests and “gifts”? Or what if the life work we have passion for does not pay? My personal example: motherhood!

In terms of prompting me to action – reading this book had a fortuitous confluence/coalescence with my desire to have a website. I do want to give away my gifts!

Follow this link to a small news article about an instance of giving away my gifts