Work, jobs, careers and livelihood

Choosing a career begins with knowing yourself: your aptitudes, talents, needs and aspirations. Then you explore options that join your strengths with a contribution to society.

Work is an essential activity done for a purpose or out of necessity. It gives us income, an identity, self-esteem and a sense of belonging. As the book says, 'work is the oil that lubricates the machine of society'. Unpaid work, in the family or as a volunteer, counts too.

Meaningful work is useful to others, done responsibly, and enjoyable. It uses our skills, judgement and creativity, and builds confidence and dignity.

Some key words:

• Livelihood: the means by which a person meets their basic needs.
• Job: work done for money.
• Career: work driven by a desire to excel and grow; it needs lifelong learning.
• Calling: work done for the satisfaction of the work itself, from an inner drive.

A story makes the difference clear. Three men were breaking stones. Asked what they were doing, one said, 'This is my job'; another, 'This is how I earn my livelihood'; the third, 'I am on my way to becoming a sculptor.' A job pays; a career grows; a calling fulfils.