What questions are you attempting to answer?

“Life’s most persistent and most urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” – Dr. Martin Luther King

Author Tom Rath’s most recent book entitled, Life’s Great Question,” is a direct response to Dr. King’s question. On April 4, 1968 Dr. King was fatally shot and his life on earth ended. Yet, his often quoted question remains with us as relevant and very contemporary.

In Rath’s book he states; “Knowing who you are—and who you are not—is essential. But it is only the starting point. All the talent, motivation, and hard work in the world will not be valued or remembered if it does not help another human being. … Real growth is the product of following your contributions more than your passions. Simply asking, ‘What can I contribute?’ leads to a better path and result than starting with yourself. This applies far beyond the realm of careers.” A growing body of evidence suggests the single greatest driver of both achievement and wellbeing is understanding how your daily efforts enhance the lives of other people.

It is also noteworthy to realize when we are making meaningful contributions to others’ lives leads not only to improved work outcomes but also leads to enhanced health and wellbeing. WOW! What a work perk! Understand that meaningful work accomplished daily leads to better health and well-being. Please take notice, I did not say busy work!

Realize that we all are participating in a global pivot that is flushing out this great question of life; “What are you doing for others?”