We live in a world often consumed by the allure of materialism, that is, a desire for money, possessions and the like. While money and possessions are nice to have and might offer temporary satisfaction, they can never truly fulfill the profound longing for purpose and meaning in our lives and careers.

As John Ortberg explains in a very powerful and thought provoking speech (watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSAVN-nYSLI) life is like the game of Monopoly – “once the game is over, it all goes back in the box.” So in this game called life, what really matters to you?

Choosing a career solely for material gain might lead us down a path where success is measured in possessions, not in personal fulfillment or impact. Genuine fulfillment, however, arises from aligning our passions, skills, and values with the work we do. It is in those moments when we wake up excited, not just for the paycheck, but because we actually enjoy and are interested in what we do, that we find true contentment.

Material possessions can provide comfort, but they can never substitute the deep sense of purpose derived from meaningful work. Instead of focussing on accumulating things, we need to shift our focus to accumulating experiences, skills, and relationships. Investing in ourselves and our communities, nurturing our passions, and contributing meaningfully to the world can lead to a life rich in fulfillment.

As we navigate our career paths, it’s important to choose avenues that resonate with us, that challenge us, and that provide opportunities for us to grow and develop as individuals.

A fulfilling career should never be just about earning a living; it’s about creating a life worth living.

What really matters in your life? Why do you do what you do?