Work is therapy

About this jawn

Just to get this out of the way: I am not a therapist. Not even close.

I’m a big fan of therapy, but I've never studied it formally and it’s not my job.

Also worth noting: I do not dream of labor.

Jobs are jobs, and everybody has to make a living under capitalism, but work is something else.

Work is hard, and so is therapy.

In both contexts, talking about our struggles in plain language helps us make progress toward our goals.

The catchphrase "work is therapy" reflects a theory I formed based on consistent feedback from clients and collaborators over a handful of years. After working with me on something that had been challenging them for reasons they couldn’t initially explain or figure out on their own, they'd find themselves relieved and elated and unblocked. It reminded them (and me) of the lightness of spirit that comes after unburdening oneself in therapy — talking openly and getting perspective from someone you can trust. 

Creating a psychologically safe and supportive environment where people can drop the detached, emotionless facade we feel pressured to carry at work allows us to more accurately assess situations and enact meaningful change. Indeed of applying the quickest fix to a given problem that requires the least possible effort, slowing down and stepping back to acknowledge the deeper factors and longer-term patterns at play empowers us to address the root causes of issues and make true sustainable progress.

I believe everyone wants to be seen, heard, understood, and valued — in work as in life.

We want to feel like our time, our energy, our efforts, and ultimately our lives have positive impact.

Working together on anything is an opportunity to make real meaning for ourselves and others.