Vocation or Occupation Why do we work?
It is interesting to consider a culture’s language sometimes. The word “Occupation” is related to “occupy.” This is what we do to keep ourselves busy. Our occupation is what keeps us from losing our minds. This is no way to waste your life. Whatever you do with your days make sure it is not dwindling them away at an “occupation.”
If you need work so you can pay the bills and you have to do something you don’t enjoy, that’s understandable. We have all been there. By instead of an occupation call it an “income source.“ And then spend your time discovering a “vocation.”
You see, vocation means work. It is something we were all made for. There is work which we all find fulfilling and productive. For some that might be sitting in a basement office pulling on a counting machine. I am not being sarcastic. Seriously, some people on this earth will find that work rewarding and productive. The rest of us will want to shoot ourselves by lunchtime.
But for some this is a vocation. This is a calling which will fulfill their lives and give it meaning.
What is your vocation?
I hear people all the time who tell me they are going into business for themselves so they can stop working. I am sorry to say that this is utter nonsense! You go into business so you can find your vocation. Anyone going into business to stop working will never be successful. You must be out to find the one thing which will fulfill you and give you purpose.
Our culture’s loss of hope is often due to so many people eeking out an existense at a job they hate so they can pay their bills. We must find what makes us happy and go after that vocation with all we have in us. Then we will be able to pay our bills (and some), as well as be content and fulfilled in what we do with our days.
So my challenge to you today is to never say “occupation” again. If you love your job, congratulations! You have discovered your vocation. If you have yet to find what fulfills you, continue at your income source until you find your true vocation!
