Discover Joy in Work by Shundrawn A. Thomas

Author:Shundrawn A. Thomas
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Work;Joy at work;Professional Development;Job Satisfaction;Career;Christian in the workplace;Work-life Balance;work life balance;how to be a good employee;employer;Christian business;Christianity and work;job;flourish at work;aptitude;achievement;recognition;work ethic;workplace;business;marketplace;flourishing;vocation;calling;character formation;leadership;Christian leadership in the workplace;business ethics;Christian business leader;Christianity in the workplace;goldman sachs;executive
Publisher: InterVarsity Press
Published: 2019-08-12T07:50:01+00:00

ADDRESSING BAD BEHAVIORS

Presumption. Presumption, which is often marked by overstepping proper bounds, is associated with self-centered pride. It is synonymous with forward or overconfident behaviors. Presumptuous behavior can even be well-intentioned but betray an inflated sense of one’s own importance. Assuming authority in the boss’s absence when unwarranted is an example of presumption. Exaggerating your own contributions in relation to those of coworkers is another example of presumptuous behavior. Our thirst for glory reveals a lack of respect for other people. This type of behavior devalues our work. Understanding the root cause holds the key to guarding against this behavior.

Since the impetus for presumption is to take credit from others, we do well to practice the opposite. A wise man once told me we each have lights intended to shine brightly. The question is whether we choose to shine like a moon or a star. He preferred a moon because it shines by reflecting light. As it applies to our work, the message is clear. Most of our work is done in collaboration with others. Therefore, we should be quick to credit others and recognize their work. By so doing, we cultivate a genuine work ethic and discover joy in our work.

Boastfulness. Boastfulness is another behavior associated with self-centered pride. Taking excessive pride in one’s abilities or achievements marks boastfulness. This behavior is primarily revealed by what we say. As the proverb says, from the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Lk 6:45). Boastful individuals talk about their ability and their work in a self-admiring way. This prideful form of speaking may begin with meritorious claims but often lead to excessive or embellished assertions. The desire for others to hold us in excess esteem leads to boastfulness. You’ve undoubtedly encountered someone you’ve considered boastful. What did you think of that person? What impression do we make when we exhibit similar behaviors? This type of immodesty reveals a lack of self-awareness. It is utterly opposed to Henry Kaiser’s admonishment to let our work do the talking.

Understanding the root cause of this behavior helps us guard against it. Since it stems from the desire to be held in excess esteem, the antidote is obvious: we must esteem our coworkers highly. In fact, I argue we should concern ourselves more with the well-being of our coworkers and be less concerned with our own standing. Work is much more enjoyable when we learn to care about ourselves less. This too is one of the secrets to discovering joy in our work.

Arrogance. Arrogance is marked by an overbearing manner and offensive displays of self-importance. Arrogant behavior reflects an attitude of superiority that comes from a belief we are smarter, better, or more important than our coworkers. This is not simply an insulting way of thinking; it is an insulting way of being. By that, I refer to both conscious and unconscious actions aimed at those around us. The desire to feel more important or more valued than our coworkers leads to arrogance. And while

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