The Ripple

Most workplace problems are relational problems, and are at the root of staff morale issues, absenteeism, and low productivity. We want to feel passionate about our work, because we recognize how much time and energy we will spend in the workplace. However, as personal investment in the workplace increases, so does vulnerability, because when something is important we feel vulnerable. This can happen when we believe in what we are doing, it can happen because the people we work with become important, and it can happen just because of the amount of time we end up spending at the workplace, as routine integrates more deeply into our lives.

What do you really want in your life? People will respond to this question in many different ways, but the most common answer is “I want to be happy.” The underlying premise that “happiness” is a worthy goal in life creates all kinds of psychological suffering. Do you actually know anyone who you would say is happy all the time, or even most of the time? Happiness is a transient emotion, one that is humanly unsustainable.