Why Worklove And Work Are The Cornerstones Of Our Humanness
Why Worklove And Work Are The Cornerstones Of Our Humannesssigmund
Work plays a fundamental role in defining our human experience, as emphasized by Sigmund Freud’s assertion that “Love and work are the cornerstones of our humanness.” Broadly, work encompasses all productive activities, whether for monetary compensation or not, contributing to our sense of purpose and self-esteem. Engaging in meaningful endeavors within personal, family, or community contexts fosters a sense of belonging and fulfillment. The definition of work varies across cultures, age groups, and life circumstances, making it a flexible concept that reflects individual and societal values.
The relationship between love and work links directly to happiness, prompting discussions about what constitutes meaningful work. For instance, debates may consider whether stay-at-home parents are working or how work is perceived across different life stages, such as childhood, adolescence, or adulthood. The evolution of work over the past century has been influenced significantly by technological advances, industrialization, globalization, and immigration, which continue to reshape job roles and opportunities. Looking ahead, questions arise about how work will change in the next two decades and what values will guide future workforce developments.
According to Merriam-Webster, work is defined as “activity in which one exerts strength or faculties to do or perform something,” which includes labor, tasks, and duties that provide livelihood or fulfill larger goals. The earliest recorded use of the term dates back to the 14th century. For children, work is often equated with play, highlighting its developmental significance. For students, work involves utilizing physical or mental capabilities to accomplish desired results. The versatility of the term “work” extends to contexts such as sports, workplaces, or broader societal contributions, illustrating its multifaceted nature.
Discussion prompts can include exploring how different cultures interpret work or asking students to generate examples illustrating various uses of the word. Such activities encourage a deeper understanding of how work functions across different domains and social settings.
Dimensions of Work
Various aspects shape how individuals perceive and value work. One approach involves students ranking what they consider most important about work and examining how these values influence career choices. Cultural and generational differences also impact perceptions of meaningful work, with some individuals prioritizing certain attributes over others.
Money
Over the past decade, financial reward has often been the primary focus in career discussions. However, a narrow focus on earning potential risks overlooking the broader significance of work, including personal fulfillment and societal contribution.
Status
Recognition, respect, and pride associated with one’s work are vital to perceptions of meaningful employment. It is important to consider whether work is pursued for self-satisfaction or to meet societal expectations and how cultural norms shape these perceptions. Ethical considerations also emerge when individuals face dilemmas, such as choosing between high earnings and ethical integrity.
Making a Difference
Contributing positively to society through one’s work is highly valued by many individuals. Whether it's teaching, healthcare, environmental conservation, or other fields, making a meaningful impact enhances overall life satisfaction and personal fulfillment. This dimension challenges the traditional hierarchy of careers by emphasizing purpose over income or status.
Following Your Passion
While passion-driven careers may not always be highly remunerative, integrating personal interests into daily work significantly boosts life satisfaction. Pursuing passions enhances motivation, creativity, and resilience, contributing to long-term well-being.
Using Your Talents
Applying innate talents—such as empathy, patience, or creativity—helps reinforce self-esteem and promotes a sense of competence. Recognizing and cultivating personal strengths aligns work with individual identity and purpose, fostering a deeper engagement with professional roles.
Additional Perspectives on Work
Other relevant dimensions include social purpose, moral responsibility, achievement, autonomy, recognition, and positive relationships. As James Hillman suggested, humans inherently want to create and imagine, whether physically or mentally. These dimensions reflect the complex motivations guiding human labor and the importance of aligning work with personal values and societal needs.
An engaging classroom activity might involve creating a “genogram” of family work histories, enabling students to explore how familial and cultural backgrounds influence perceptions of work. Additionally, referencing the World Health Organization’s report on “Mental health and work” offers insights into the psychological impacts of employment, emphasizing the importance of positive feedback and ethical workplace practices.
Effective feedback in settings like intensive care units (ICUs), as highlighted by healthcare professionals, is crucial in staff development. Positive feedback reinforces good practices, while constructive criticism identifies areas for improvement, ultimately leading to better patient care and staff morale.
Conclusion
The exploration of work’s multifaceted nature reveals its central role in shaping individual identity, societal cohesion, and cultural values. Understanding the various dimensions can help individuals find meaningful employment aligned with their talents, passions, and ethical standards. As society continues to evolve, so too will the concept of work, underscoring the importance of adaptability, purpose, and human connection in fulfilling one’s humanness.
References
- Freud, S. (1930). "Beyond the Pleasure Principle."
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary. (2023). Definition of work.
- Hillman, J. (1996). The soul’s code: In search of character and calling. Random House.
- World Health Organization. (2013). Mental health and work: Impact issues and good practices.
- Baumeister, R. F., & Vohs, K. D. (2016). Handbook of self-regulation: Research, theory, and applications. Guilford Publications.
- Hirschfeld, G. (2008). Working identities: Role and self in work and careers. Oxford University Press.
- Greenhaus, J. H., & Allen, T. D. (2011). Work-family balance: A review and extension of the literature. Journal of Management.
- Super, D. E. (1957). The psychology of careers. Harper & Brothers.
- Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.
- Schwartz, B. (2004). The paradox of choice: Why more is less. Harper Perennial.