How to Start Every Work Project

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 3

Be More Human at Work: Work and Study

Reflection on the Monk Mindset & Quote

When I start work for the day or switch between projects I tend to dive right in and move quickly between things to avoid losing time. I sometimes find it hard to pause before meetings because I often schedule my calendar to have numerous back-to-back virtual meetings.

This continuous flow of meetings and commitments can be more efficient, yes. But it doesn’t leave a lot of space to take moments for prayer in between commitments. 

St. Benedict, the 6th century “father of Western monasticism” advised his monks to take moments in prayer before beginning a work or project so that “He may perfect the work.” 

We can work and produce. But work is “perfected” – becomes exalted – when we allow God to more fully and radically be in the work.

Even though I’m not as consistent as I’d like, when I have followed this guidance to pray before beginning work, I tend to work with greater peace. Similarly, if I’m trying to work through a problem, I’ll typically have greater clarity on the path ahead.

Vision is the capacity to see through the muddiness of that which lies ahead. 

When we take moments to genuinely seek God’s presence in our work or endeavor, the muddiness that obscures the path ahead dissipates.

Put It Into Practice This Week

Today – perhaps even in your very next project or work endeavor – take a few moments to invite God’s presence in the project or offer it to Him. 

It may end up being the best use of your work time.

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