Self-improvement Atlas

Rebecca Fraser-Thill: Psychology and Design of Work | Self-Improvement Atlas #48

Many find it challenging to grasp the psychology behind design thinking and its connection to finding meaningful work. But, engaging in meaningful work enhances well-being and personal growth. This is why Marie Stella and Rebecca Fraser-Thill emphasize the importance of self-reflection and proactive steps. Tune in to discover strategies for understanding meaningful work in your life.

Meet Rebecca Fraser-Thill

Rebecca Fraser-Thill is an ICF-credentialed Leadership and Career Coach, Forbes senior Contributor on meaningful work, and owner of Fraser-Thill Coaching & Consulting, based near Portland, Maine, USA. She works with one-on-one coaching clients worldwide, provides leadership training at corporations and nonprofits, including Amazon and Cisco, and offers consultations for organizations seeking to retain and optimize the engagement and productivity of their workforce.

Rebecca taught psychology at Bates College for 18 years and led the design of their nationally-recognized Purposeful Work program. Her work has been featured by Harvard Business Review, the BBC, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, Dow Jones’ MarketWatch, and Quartz, among other outlets. She holds a master’s in developmental psychology from Cornell University.

About the episode

In this episode, Marie and Rebecca explore the psychology behind design thinking and its connection to uncovering meaningful work. They stress the importance of self-reflection and taking proactive steps toward personal growth.

Rebecca underlines the value of trial and error in self-discovery, suggesting trying various approaches like morning or nighttime reflection despite potential setbacks. During their discussion, Marie and Rebecca explored different reflection methods, including directed journaling prompts and contemplative walks.

They also delve into the concept of meaningful work, drawing from psychologist Michael Steger’s research to highlight its subjective nature. They emphasize the essential elements of personal significance, extending beyond oneself, and a sense of worthiness within meaningful work. 

Furthermore, they demonstrate how even mundane tasks can carry significance depending on one’s approach. They discuss the significance of discovering meaningful work for personal growth, aligning with the principles of self-actualization in humanistic psychology. 

They caution against the harmful effects of lacking meaning in one’s work and emphasize the importance of leading a purposeful life. Meaningful thinking entails deep self-understanding, encompassing values, personality traits, skills, growth areas, and desired impact. It involves brainstorming ways to align these aspects with one’s work and testing ideas through prototyping before fully committing. 

Although challenges like discomfort with reflection and the pressure for perfection may arise, embracing ambiguity and exploring possibilities are crucial for meaningful growth.

In conclusion

In this podcast, Marie and Rebecca explore how to find fulfilling work that aligns with personal values. The journey towards meaningful work involves a profound understanding of oneself and a commitment to aligning personal values and aspirations with professional endeavors. 

Be the first to see our next episode. Follow us on social media to stay updated: 

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

Pinterest 

You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms:

Apple Podcast

Spotify Podcast

Amazon Podcast

Podbean Podcast

Podchaser Podcast

Google Podcast

PlayerFM Podcast

iHeart Radio Podcast

Aisyah Nisa

Recent Posts

The Ultimate Guide to a More Sustainable Living Space

In today’s fast-paced world, houses get cluttered just as fast, causing greater stress and disorganization.…

3 days ago

Addressing Barriers to Effective Partner Support in Prenatal Care

Are you an expectant father anticipating your unborn child? It's such an exciting time, but…

4 days ago

Are You Ready for Marriage? A Complete Guide to Marriage Readiness

What’s the first thing on your mind when you think about marriage? Is it to…

5 days ago

How Digital Sexual Communication Enhances Intimacy

Today, finding a partner is as simple as texting, swiping, or clicking. With the emergence…

6 days ago

The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Ideal Place to Live

Relocating is never a simple, spontaneous, and reckless matter. A move is a big and…

7 days ago

The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Cervical Health

Every woman, throughout her lifespan, undergoes frequent hormonal changes that impact several organ structures, including…

1 week ago