Inspiration at Work?

[c9]

I've never thought of my job as a noble pursuit. In fact, I often get a little down because I don't believe I'm doing Good. I could be helping children in Africa, or building houses for the homeless, or even getting into civic politics and effecting change. But teaching people how to make a database? It certainly helps them, but where does the planet actually benefit?

The other night my company (well, a co-worker and I) hosted an instructor event where we brought in our favourite instructors and talked about the changes at Nexient, gave them a chance to talk to the CEO and with each other, wined and dined them, and talked about presenting what Nexient is all about in the classroom. One of the things that happened was my new boss talked a bit about how he sees the work we do, and it was the first time anyone had ever made me think about the Good that is found in what we do: "People are entrusting their careers to us." Thinking about it like that made me think just a little differently about it.

I still don't see overall Good in what we do, but the positive impact we can have on other people, not just on their activities, did make me think a bit.

I do think I'd like to find something I can do that I feel is more meaningful though. Volunteering would be a good start, but the way my work is right now I don't think I could find time -- and I think that maybe I should devote more of my time to Good than I currently do to Neutral.

Do you see Good in what you do? Do you want to see Good in what you do? Does all this talk of Good make you a little bit Pukey?

Comments

[thespos]

For me, as I have no real medical background, my work is the only way I can contribute to the betterment of society. I take what I do very seriously, because the data we work with has the potential to impact human lives. I have worked on studies for HIV/AIDS, diabetes, various forms of cancer, rotovirus (which kills thousands of children each year), and other treatments. I can't cure these people myself, but I can make sure that the research done to help them is in a secure system, and that the people making judgements about the drugs can be assured that the data is sound.

I got started in this industry right after a good friend told me he was HIV positive, and not only was he positive, but he had had bouts of serious illness. I was devastated, and then the Universe handed me a way to make a difference. I have never looked back, and no matter what kinds of politics and personalities I have had to endure, I never forget the importance of what I do, and what it means for people the world over.

The rotovirus study, as one example, developed a vaccine for third world countries. Millions of children will ultimately be saved. Who can't feel good from that?