In today’s busy world, we often prioritize earning money and acquiring material possessions. We work hard to secure better pay, more benefits, and increased wealth. However, we sometimes forget about the sense of well-being and peace that comes from genuinely enjoying our work. It’s essential to recognize that there are two salaries we receive from work: one that meets our needs and boosts our self-esteem, and another that nurtures our heart. This week, let’s explore these two types of pay and rediscover the importance of feeling content and fulfilled in our jobs.
“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
– Howard Thurman
A Salary for the Personality
For many people, the primary reason to work is to make a living. We aim to earn enough money to afford our lifestyle, pay our bills, and care for our loved ones. There’s nothing wrong with aspiring to be financially stable and successful; it gives us a sense of security and opens up a myriad of opportunities.
In contemporary society, we often identify ourselves by our professions. For instance, a successful lawyer might feel proud and satisfied with their substantial paycheck. This type of pay rewards them for their hard work, enhances their self-esteem, and raises their social status. However, this kind of salary might not always fulfill our deeper emotional and spiritual needs.
A Salary for the Heart and Soul
Beyond financial gain, there’s another type of salary that deeply touches our hearts and souls, catering to our emotional and spiritual health. This kind of pay stems from the joy, satisfaction, and purpose we find in our work. It emerges when what we love and believe in aligns with what we do daily.
In the book ‘Turning Pro’ by Steven Pressfield, he equates this concept to the strong commitment of marines. Even though they might not earn a lot of money, they derive immense satisfaction from their service. This satisfaction, known as the “psychological salary,” holds a value that extends beyond monetary gains.
Being a marine is more than just wearing a uniform; it’s about being part of a close-knit community with a proud history. It affords them a profound sense of purpose and camaraderie, which is rare to find elsewhere. United by a common goal, marines foster an identity tied to friendship, personal fulfillment, and unwavering dedication to bravery and resilience. The pride and honor they receive from this bond are priceless treasures that stand the test of time.
The Joy of Changing Lives
As a professional coach, I understand the desire for financial success. When I received my first payment for a coaching session, I felt validated and perceived the potential for building a career. However, it’s crucial not to focus solely on money. Prioritizing financial gain above all else can hinder personal growth and the positive impact we can have on others.
The second type of pay, the psychological salary, includes the joy that comes from transforming people’s lives, witnessing breakthroughs, continuous learning, and discovering hidden talents within myself. These rewards, which cannot be measured monetarily, are invaluable. They fuel my passion and inspire me to keep pressing forward, session after session.
The Key to Happiness
The real key to satisfaction is finding a balance between these two types of salaries. It’s important to meet our practical needs while also nourishing our emotional and spiritual selves. Finding this equilibrium can be challenging but rewarding. It involves striking a balance between our desire for material possessions and our need for emotional and spiritual fulfillment.
For instance, someone in business might find happiness by switching to a job in a nonprofit organization or starting a passion-driven business. This shift might result in less income, but it could offer invaluable emotional and spiritual rewards, such as increased satisfaction, a stronger sense of purpose, and the alignment of personal and professional values.
Two Questions to Ask Yourself
When contemplating a possible job or new career path, it’s essential to consider your dreams and priorities. To determine if a job will truly make you happy, ask yourself these two key questions:
Will it provide enough money to cover my needs, support my lifestyle, and meet my financial obligations?
While it’s important to find work that you love, it’s also necessary to ensure it can meet your basic needs and financial responsibilities. Determine if the job offers a fair wage that fulfills your needs. Consider whether it provides stability and financial security, allowing you to live comfortably and attain your financial goals.
Will it lead to emotional and spiritual fulfillment?
Beyond thinking about money, it’s crucial to evaluate whether the job can contribute to your emotional and spiritual well-being. Reflect on whether it aligns with your values, presents opportunities for personal growth, and provides a strong sense of purpose and satisfaction. Will the work ignite your passions, kindle your creativity, and allow you to make a meaningful impact? Consider whether the job can invigorate and inspire you, tending to your emotional and spiritual health.
By delving deeply into these questions, you can paint a clear picture of whether a job can satisfy your financial needs and nourish your emotional and spiritual well-being. Remember, true fulfillment comes from balancing these two aspects. Seek a job that pays the bills but also replenishes your emotional and spiritual energy, promoting your professional, personal, and spiritual growth.
A Purpose with Heart and Soul
“Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and give your whole heart and soul to it.”
― Buddha
As you strive for success, remember to heed what your heart and soul genuinely desire. While a salary for the personality may cater to your financial and intellectual needs, it’s equally vital to earn a salary that takes care of your heart. So, endeavor to find a job that not only pays the bills but also allows you to grow, be creative, and contribute to something larger than yourself.
Ask yourself: Are you happy and fulfilled in your current job, both emotionally and spiritually?
If not, what measures can you take to find more satisfaction? Embrace your journey of striking a balance between these two salaries. In this balance, you’ll uncover the true richness and purpose of your professional life.
From my heart to yours,
