by Marjolein Lips-Wiersma and Lani Morris
The Map of Meaningful Work (Greenleaf Publishing) represents the combined work of two experienced practitioners in leadership. It contains tools (notably the Map of Meaning) that can be used at an individual, group or organisation level. Using the Map in particular allows people to take the time to identify aspects of their work that are meaningful to them. This leads to increased motivation and satisfaction as individuals can craft their work to focus on meaning.
As a manager of a team, I found the book quickly delivered information and questions I could use in the team immediately, as well as giving options for lengthier training sessions. There are suggestions to help individuals and teams effectively use the strategies – you can see the results of decades of delivering workshops in different countries and cultures in these suggestions. The framework can also be used at an organisation level when setting strategic direction.
Case studies throughout the book give practical examples – I was very taken with an example provided of working constructively to improve processes in the organisation through identifying the mismatch between what inspired them in their work, compared with the reality.
For people who have “lost the spark” or organisations keen to centre meaning in their mission, The Map of Meaningful Work will provide guidance and direction. – Emma Rutherford
