Having a fulfilling career is the catalyst to living a meaningful life. Increasingly though, it’s becoming rare to see people who are in love with their work, in fact, according to Gallup, seventy-one percent of American workers are “not engaged” or “actively disengaged” in their work. This translates to over two-thirds of the working population being emotionally disconnected from their work and less likely to be productive. Consequently, many are turning to career coaches for advice, and the solution they’re hearing most often, is the “follow your passion” mantra that has become this decade’s default mantra. Personally, I believe whole heartedly in pursuing what you love, but after reading Georgetown Professor Cal Newport’s latest book – So Good They Can’t Ignore You – I was reassured that what you do is far less important to how you do it. Michael Phelps didn’t become the greatest Olympian because of his love for swimming; he simply never missed a day in the pool – “I think goals should never be easy, they should force you to work, even if they are uncomfortable at the time. I can’t remember the last day I didn’t train.” All things considered, those who deliberately hone their skills will always distant themselves from the crowd. Here are professor Newport’s four rules to helping you get so good that they can’t ignore you …..
