The difference between a ‘job’ and a ‘calling’
In a job ‘we are defined by our boundaries.’ These are described in our job description, and the rules we agree to follow; both of which were written by someone else.
In a calling ‘we are defined by our horizon.’ These are described by our dreams, our hopes and our purpose in life, creating something of meaning that endures after we have gone; all of which were written by us and are integral to who we are.
In a job ‘we play within boundaries.’ Stay inside the fence. The best strategy for success is to stay put, to do our best, and to wait for our box to move up the chart.
In a calling ‘we play with boundaries.’ Move outside the fence. The best strategy is to step out, challenge the system and hope others catch up.
In a job the aim is to satisfy as many people as possible. In a calling the aim is to delight the people who care. People with callings don’t make everyone happy; otherwise they would be average.
In a job ‘we compete with each other.’ We play to win. Defend the box, defend the system, and mostly, make sure you keep your guard up.
In a calling anyone who is working broadly towards the same ends is a friend so we play to bring as many people onboard as possible. If we compete with anyone ‘we compete with ourselves.’
In a job it’s about ‘follow the leader.’
In a calling it’s about ‘be the leader.’
In a job, ‘fit in, even if it hurts.’
In a calling, ‘make waves, even if it hurts.’
In a calling ‘we are defined by our horizon.’ These are described by our dreams, our hopes and our purpose in life, creating something of meaning that endures after we have gone; all of which were written by us and are integral to who we are.
In a job ‘we play within boundaries.’ Stay inside the fence. The best strategy for success is to stay put, to do our best, and to wait for our box to move up the chart.
In a calling ‘we play with boundaries.’ Move outside the fence. The best strategy is to step out, challenge the system and hope others catch up.
In a job the aim is to satisfy as many people as possible. In a calling the aim is to delight the people who care. People with callings don’t make everyone happy; otherwise they would be average.
In a job ‘we compete with each other.’ We play to win. Defend the box, defend the system, and mostly, make sure you keep your guard up.
In a calling anyone who is working broadly towards the same ends is a friend so we play to bring as many people onboard as possible. If we compete with anyone ‘we compete with ourselves.’
In a job it’s about ‘follow the leader.’
In a calling it’s about ‘be the leader.’
In a job, ‘fit in, even if it hurts.’
In a calling, ‘make waves, even if it hurts.’