Chapter 1: The Work Conundrum

In this discussion, we will delve into the complexities surrounding work: how we earn our living, how our occupations shape our identities, how we fill our time, and how we confront the existential challenges that arise when our jobs lose their appeal, become unfulfilling, or even cease to exist due to technological progress.

Mental health professionals and self-help advocates often overlook the significance of our jobs, yet work plays a pivotal role in our lives. It consumes a considerable portion of our time, exhausts us, dominates our thoughts, and carries profound existential implications that fundamentally define our identities.

Consider this: what if your job merely serves the basic function of survival, with no alignment to your life’s purpose? Wouldn’t you likely harbor resentment towards it, constantly fantasizing about a different path?

Alternatively, imagine you’re engaged in work that resonates with you, yet the process of doing it is agonizing. For instance, you might long to pen a novel, but find the act of writing torturous. How challenging would that be?

Or consider a stay-at-home parent balancing household duties and child-rearing. Despite working tirelessly, will you feel validated in your efforts? Will society recognize your contributions as "real work"?

Existential wellness coaches must engage with these critical issues alongside their clients.

A recent survey indicated that approximately 85% of workers express dissatisfaction with their jobs, while other studies suggest the figure could be as low as 70%. Are these individuals simply disgruntled, or is the nature of work fundamentally flawed? It seems we are grappling with yet another epidemic, alongside rising rates of depression, addiction, anxiety, insomnia, and loneliness. But what is the root cause?

Indeed, work is a significant problem. Even the jobs we create for ourselves can be difficult to bear. A seasoned existential wellness coach understands that this has always been the case. Work is not merely a benign aspect of life; it can often be quite harsh.

Work consumes a substantial fraction of our existence. It may help pay the bills, yet it can also be a thief of time and spirit. While a fortunate few may find fulfillment in their careers, this is not the reality for most. For many, work is a burden, a source of stress, or even a detriment to their well-being.

Why does it seem that the majority of jobs do not cater to our fundamental human needs? Let’s envision ideal work—work that fits us seamlessly and brings us joy to the extent that we hardly perceive it as labor. What would such work entail?

Ideal work would evoke a sense of purpose, be engaging, align with our ethical beliefs, match our personality, offer adequate compensation, and not leave us feeling drained.

Additionally, it would ideally come with perks such as community and a sense of belonging. These aspects can be crucial. Perhaps we desire our work to confer status, empower us, or allow for creativity. Is such a scenario realistic?

Consider this: a teacher may find joy in her profession but struggle with inadequate pay. A lawyer might love their work, but face ethical dilemmas. A social worker may appreciate the value of their contributions yet suffer from burnout, while a poet might never see a financial return.

Now, let’s assume we miraculously discover ideal work. We would then need the world, the nature of that work, and ourselves to remain static. How feasible is that? How likely is it that a competing café won’t spring up right next door to your charming little establishment?

The landscape of professions can shift overnight. For instance, think about how the perception of mail delivery has transformed from receiving heartfelt letters to sorting through piles of junk mail. Can we truly accept such changes?

What are the chances that competitors won’t emerge? How probable is it that your job will continue to spark your interest indefinitely? What if cultural shifts impact everything we know? What if you’re suddenly reassigned or let go?

Thus, for work to feel bearable, it must fulfill numerous criteria—perhaps too many. Simultaneously, we hope for no changes: no new management, no technological disruptions, and no creeping monotony. Where did we get the notion that this could be achievable?

And considering the sheer amount of time work demands! Surviving an hour of dreadful work might be manageable, but eight hours? Or nine? Or ten? Factor in the time spent commuting or ruminating about work, and one must question if half of life should be sacrificed this way.

Given this reality, how should an existential wellness coach navigate these challenges with their clients? Are there strategies to improve work conditions? Is it possible to shift work from being burdensome to satisfying? Or is the coach’s role limited to sharing in their clients’ frustrations?

Unless we are independently wealthy or otherwise financially secure, earning a living is essential for survival. Coaches and clients alike must recognize the seriousness of work, beginning with the need to survive—a fundamental truth that existential wellness coaches embrace.

Moreover, humans require engagement. Existentially, we can't escape the necessity of work. Yes, we can take vacations and enjoy periods of leisure, but ultimately, we need to be occupied.

Occupation and earning a livelihood are fundamental needs. Beyond that, we desire our work to be interesting, ethical, and to provide benefits such as community and creative outlets. While we may lack clear answers, these are the vital questions.

Chapter 2: The Existential Wellness Coach Certificate Program

This groundbreaking program will immerse participants in the transformative realm of Existential Wellness Coaching. It empowers individuals to help others navigate life’s profound challenges.

Join us for a 26-week journey into the essence of human existence. Engage with core existential concepts, learn to craft meaningful life purposes, and harness the power of living authentically.

This program offers a unique opportunity to create a genuine impact—not just in the lives of your clients, but in your own life as well. Under the guidance of Eric Maisel, a recognized thought leader, and with support from Noble Manhattan Coaching, you'll acquire the skills necessary to become one of the pioneering Existential Wellness Coaches.

Don’t miss this chance to embrace a path filled with purpose, passion, and productivity. Register now and become a source of existential wellness in a world yearning for deeper answers.

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