Our monthly thought-starters come to you from our team of Guides, who are trained to help you make the most of your MeaningSphere experience. They’re on hand to help members of our community explore the big question: “What is the meaning of my work to me?” Find out more about our Guide services here. In this thought-starter Guide Sheri Buergey explores the role that ritual can play in finding meaning at work.
I once read that a ritual is “any activity that has the power to create a meaningful moment.” Unlike a habit we repeat daily without thought (such as showering, or brushing our teeth), a ritual is something we do with intention and attach our own meaning to. It doesn’t have to be based in superstition, religion, or culture. Making coffee is a habit, but taking a hot mug of it out into the garden and watching the sun rise is a ritual. A ritual helps the practitioner feel mentally prepared for what’s ahead.
I really appreciated this perspective on rituals. It came to me at a critical time in my career when I was stressed at work and that stress carried over into my personal life. At the time, I didn’t meditate or journal as I do now. I wasn’t doing much for my well-being (and sanity) besides daily exercise. The thought of building a new discipline felt heavy and was just one more thing to add to my plate. But a ritual can actually be quite simple. Without sharing the long, boring journey, I’d like to share three rituals that I now proudly practice that help me be my best self at work.
I once read that a ritual is “any activity that has the power to create a meaningful moment.” Unlike a habit we repeat daily without thought (such as showering, or brushing our teeth), a ritual is something we do with intention and attach our own meaning to. It doesn’t have to be based in superstition, religion, or culture. Making coffee is a habit, but taking a hot mug of it out into the garden and watching the sun rise is a ritual. A ritual helps the practitioner feel mentally prepared for what’s ahead.
I really appreciated this perspective on rituals. It came to me at a critical time in my career when I was stressed at work and that stress carried over into my personal life. At the time, I didn’t meditate or journal as I do now. I wasn’t doing much for my well-being (and sanity) besides daily exercise. The thought of building a new discipline felt heavy and was just one more thing to add to my plate. But a ritual can actually be quite simple. Without sharing the long, boring journey, I’d like to share three rituals that I now proudly practice that help me be my best self at work.
Without realizing it, you may have already elevated several activities in your workday to the status of “ritual.” What daily rituals do you already practice? What rituals would you like to introduce to your workday in 2023? If you are part of a team, notice what rituals are already in place and what value they bring. If you manage others, consider what rituals you might introduce to induct newcomers, recognize achievement, or transition your team in and out of work mode.
Sheri Buergey is a MeaningSphere Guide.