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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Listen to the Intro
The Purpose Myth summary
Charlotte Cramer
Change the World, Not Your Job
20 mins
Table of Contents
The Purpose Myth
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
The idea that your job must fulfill you is a myth.
“Hi, so what do you do?”
You’ve likely had a dinner party moment like this. And unless you’re lucky enough to have your dream job, your answer may feel somewhat embarrassing. Somehow it can feel like you’re being judged. That’s because it’s a widespread— yet false— belief that what we do is who we are.
In previous generations, jobs actually did reflect who you were. Whether you were a baker or a builder, what you did was understood by your community – especially if they liked your bread. But as much as these jobs might have been part of someone’s identity, purpose was found in other places, like at church or at home.
Nowadays, we’re more disconnected from religion and family; on top of that, our jobs are a little more vague. And yet, most job postings promise meaningful and fulfilling opportunities. Well, that's because HR departments have figured out that the language of purpose is a great way to reel in promising applicants.
The key message here is: The idea that your job must fulfill you is a myth.
And the idea that your job is an expression of your identity, that it can truly give your life meaning, is driven by market capitalism. That’s because when people see hard work and spending money as a part of who they are, they’re more likely to do those things. But, ultimately, these activities aren’t fulfilling.
So what do we need in order to feel fulfilled?
The author, Charlotte Cramer, interviewed over a hundred people and identified three core needs. First, we need to survive – to have our material needs met. Next, to feel emotionally and spiritually fulfilled, we need to strive and feel like we’re making a difference in the world. And last, we need to thrive by learning new things and satisfying our curiosity.
Unfortunately, most jobs only satisfy the first need – allowing us to survive by giving us a paycheck. Rarely do our jobs allow us to strive or thrive. It was only when Cramer started her Purpose Project that she was finally able to experience the feeling of doing meaningful work. Not only was she able to strive toward making the world better, but the work also helped her to thrive by taking her outside of her comfort zone.
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What is The Purpose Myth about?
The Purpose Myth (2020) dispels the idea that what you do to earn a living should also be your life’s driving purpose. Although many job offers are posted as fulfilling opportunities, the reality of office life remains banal. This book offers clear guidance on how to find the joy and satisfaction that’s too often lacking at work.
Who should read The Purpose Myth?
- People looking to put some purpose back into their lives
- Aspiring entrepreneurs on the hunt for inspiration
- Anyone who finds their day job unfulfilling
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