The Search by Bruce Feiler

THE SEARCH by Bruce Feiler, subtitled “Finding Meaningful Work in a Post-Career World,” is an extremely interesting look at work and how it is changing. He writes about making job choices and others’ expectations and making what feels like an “un-right choice” since it disappoints someone, but often ends up being the right choice. Feiler explores the idea of finding meaning through work and having an impact. He cites studies by Gallup and Deloitte which have respectively found that well-being and balance are more important, especially to younger workers, than salary or money. He argues that his research shows that the average person experiences twenty “workquakes” (e.g., getting laid off, taking time away to care for family members, starting your own business) during their time at work and that the majority of these workquakes are initiated outside of work. In its second half, THE SEARCH provides a series of questions to help you find work that you love and to evaluate your own situation. For example, Feiler notes that the story we learn from parents is often about the value of working hard, but that we are increasingly pushing back at the sacrifices (e.g., less family time) that are expected. THE SEARCH, based on hundreds of interviews, is written in a very accessible manner and will encourage a great deal of thoughtful reflection, including the final section on success and the American Dream(s). Readers who are interested may wish to also look at this recent excerpted essay by Feiler plus a book review, both from The Wall Street Journal. 

Also, Feiler recently spoke at Family Action Network – here is a video of that discussion: