Chapter 1: The Weight of Work

Work isn't merely "difficult." Many aspects of it resonate poorly with us, both psychologically and existentially.

By Eric Maisel

This series of discussions on "the challenges of work" supports the upcoming Existential Wellness Coach Certificate Program launching in February 2024. The program includes 12 FREE webinars in March, April, and May 2024. For more information, visit the links provided.

Growing up in Brooklyn with my mother, I had an early understanding of what "my work" entailed, straddling interests in both science and the humanities. Although I had no formal job—aside from summers spent working at my in-laws' antique shop—I felt a sense of purpose immersing myself in the works of Newton, Einstein, Sartre, and Camus.

In contrast, my college experience felt devoid of meaning, leading to my academic failure. Subsequently, I enlisted in the Army during the Vietnam War. After my service and completing my degree, I took a role as a veterans' benefits counselor at the Veterans Administration, assisting veterans with their inquiries.

Initially, I approached my responsibilities with naivety, striving to assist each veteran as quickly as possible. However, after a day and a half, I was called into my supervisor's office, where I was informed that my rapid pace was detrimental to the team's performance. I was advised to slow down significantly. This directive didn't align with my values, prompting my departure.

Following that, I landed a proofreading position at the American Meteorological Society. Despite having no prior proofreading experience, I learned quickly, but the role proved excruciatingly monotonous. The task of reading technical jargon line-by-line—sometimes backwards—was mentally taxing, and the compensation did not reflect the effort.

Through a network connection, I stumbled into a unique role judging radio contests, which involved randomly selecting winners from a bowl. This method often felt arbitrary and left me dissatisfied, leading me to leave that position as well.

Next, I ventured into door-to-door encyclopedia sales. After a single evening of pestering unsuspecting customers, I realized how unreasonable my pitch was, and I promptly quit.

Fortunately, I eventually secured a coveted job as a ghostwriter. I relished the opportunity to write and get paid for it, fulfilling many criteria of ideal work—except for the ethical implications. My work often bore another's name, raising questions about authenticity. I struggled with writing on topics I was unfamiliar with, particularly when it came to health-related subjects.

After a stint of ghostwriting, including a book on dubious medical theories, I decided to transition into psychotherapy. Despite the lack of practical training, my peers relished their titles as "patients," which struck me as problematic. Over the last three decades, I've critiqued the shortcomings of psychotherapy and psychiatry.

This exploration could continue indefinitely. It's not just that work is “challenging.” It often conflicts with our psychological and existential needs, embedding us in a landscape of monotony, ethical dilemmas, and interpersonal conflicts—factors that are hardly appealing. Yet, the reality of bills looms large...

Chapter 2: A Journey Through Creative Expression

In "A History of My Brief Body" by Billy Ray Belcourt, the author explores personal narratives and the complexities of identity. This audiobook excerpt dives into profound themes surrounding existence and self-awareness.

Chapter 3: Taking Action: Writing Your Story

In "Writing Your Life Story: Get Started with this Exercise," viewers are guided through practical steps to begin crafting their own narratives. This exercise emphasizes the power of storytelling as a means of self-discovery and reflection.