We believe work is only one component of an abundant life. Where does this belief come from and how do we live it out at North Group?

We are proponents of organizations establishing and living by an immutable set of core values. One of our core values – encouraging balanced living – is a current topic of conversation in many organizations, worldwide. Leaders are becoming increasingly concerned about the effect of overwork on their employees. Employees are leaving their positions in unprecedented numbers.

Many of us have seen the difference in vocational expectations in European and Latino cultures as compared to our own. And, we wonder. What is this “work ethic” thing anyway? How is it affected by our North American culture, indeed our Central Pennsylvanian culture?

In order to faithfully live out this core value and belief, leaders need to exemplify what balanced living and an abundant life look like. As Founder and CEO of North Group, I must closely consider the example I am setting in this area.

It seems to me that we are largely powerless to avoid the fact that many of our waking hours are consumed by vocation. Such is the construct and expectation of our North American system/ethic. But I don’t think this “abundant life” thing is strictly about hours. Rather, it is about priorities, commitment and “presence”.

And so I pose these questions:

• Do you have a set of ranked priorities? Where does your vocation sit inside of those priorities?
• Do you have a sense of what you are “called to”? Is this “calling” limited to vocation? Or does it extend beyond your vocation?
• Do you have a picture of what an abundant life looks like for you and your family? Do you have a disciplined method for pursuing that life?
• What does it mean for you to be “fully present” in each moment?
• Once you answer the above questions, what accountabilities will you place in your life to make sure that you stay “on track”?

Pursuing the “abundant life” that God intends for you is not easy. I’m on the way, want to join me?