Beyond the Desk: Embracing Engagement in Every Aspect of Life

I use the hashtag #TheEngagementDoctor on my social media platforms. My Doctor of Business Administration explored Employee Engagement in Shared Services Team in a Regional University Context (I know what you are thinking - that's a real page turner?)! To save you some time you can read the Cliff Notes here.

Of the many lessons from my research I found that some people just had that je ne sais quoi. An elusive quality of calm, satisfaction, and an ability to weather the various storms that life inevitably threw their way.

The truth was that these beautiful people had curated a meaningful life that lay beyond the confines of their office space. Yet this 'life' subsequently inspired and enriched their working lives.

I felt I had uncovered a truth that many of us intuitively know but often overlook: engagement is not just a workplace metric; it’s a life philosophy. When we engage fully with all facets of our lives—our hobbies, our relationships, our personal growth—we unlock a level of satisfaction that work alone cannot provide.

This revelation adds weight to the age-old wisdom that there is indeed more to life than work. It’s about finding passion in the pages of a book, the strokes of a paintbrush, the laughter shared with loved ones, and the quiet moments of self-reflection.

So, how do we cultivate this broader engagement? Here are a few strategies that have enriched my life and might just do the same for yours:

Pursue Your Passions: Make time for the things that light a fire in your soul. Whether it’s gardening, playing an instrument, or volunteering, let your passions lead you to new heights of engagement. I love to write.

Connect Deeply: Relationships are the bedrock of a fulfilling life. Invest in your connections with family, friends, and community. Be present, be genuine, and watch the magic unfold.

Never Stop Learning: The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey. Attend workshops, read voraciously, and challenge yourself to learn something new every day.

Give Back: There’s immense joy in giving. Find causes that resonate with you and dedicate your time or resources to make a difference.

Balance is Key: Strive for a harmonious balance between work and play. Remember, rest is not idleness; it’s an essential ingredient for a well-lived life.

Engagement is not a switch to be flipped on during work hours and off when the day ends. It’s a continuous flow that enriches every moment, every interaction, and every dream.

Laugh Daily: In our house, we’re big on humor. It’s not always about the grand achievements or the ‘big stuff’—sometimes, it’s the laughter shared over a silly joke or a comical situation that truly enriches our lives.

So, this blog post gives you a little more insight into me, my approach and what motivates me. I invite you to join me in this holistic approach to engagement. Share your stories, your successes, and even your struggles. Together, let’s champion a life that’s engaged, empowered, and utterly satisfying.

Until next time, #TheEngagementDoctor

Regards Kym