Author’s Note

The workplace has continued to be ravaged by changes since the first edition of 48 Days to the Work You Love. We have seen the collapse of major financial institutions, auto manufacturers, real estate companies, and thousands of smaller companies around the world. Many are now asking—Has the process for finding fulfilling work changed as well? And the answer is “Yes”—and “No.” Yes, the process of connecting with a company has changed. Yes, many of the old work models are being eliminated, never to return again. No, the opportunities have not disappeared; they just look different. We know that with any change, new opportunities appear as well. The world has become flattened—meaning you can apply for positions with organizations that are not even in the same country where you choose to live. The chances of having a “job” with a guaranteed salary and benefits are diminishing, but it’s never been easier to define new work models that allow for increased time, freedom, and income.

And no, the process for finding work that “fits,” and that is the application of our calling, has not changed. As outlined in the original 48 Days to the Work You Love, I believe that 85 percent of the process of having confidence in one’s career direction comes from looking inward—15 percent is the application to fitting work. That process of looking inward has not changed. It’s still a proven process of finding your unique talents, creating a clear focus, and then finding—or creating—the appropriate application for meaningful, fulfilling, purposeful, and profitable work.

Thus, with this revised edition we will look at the changing trends and the impact of recent changes on the workplace. The process of finding work that “fits’” is not a one-time event. Whether you are eighteen or sixty-two, fulfilling work requires an ongoing understanding of who we are and who we are becoming. Each transition point in life (even if unexpected and unwelcomed) gives us a fresh opportunity to realign our daily activities to embrace our continued maturity and our ability to contribute effectively.

Prepare for the new normal.