How To Find Fulfilling Work by Roman Krznaric Review

Doing what it says in the title, Roman Krznaric explores the concept of meaningful work for those who are unhappy with their 9-5 and looking to change that. And he does a pretty good job of it!

Approaching his subject via a variety of disciplines, Roman frames work itself within a historical context, showing how it has evolved over time (mainly with an eye to the West) as well as incorporating psychology to explain how we can entrap ourselves in jobs that offer us money and status but fail to provide meaning or utilise our talents. People’s fear of change and why failure is more potent than success are concepts that are also addressed to encourage the reader onwards, past the doubt. 

He also includes inspiring stories about people who were stuck in jobs they hated but who took a risk (and often a steep pay cut!) and are now in jobs they love and are much happier, as well as people who had no idea what they wanted to do so went out with the express purpose of trying as many professions as they could (usually for no money) to find out where their passions lie.

By far the most useful aspect of the book were the pointed questions scattered throughout to get you thinking about your own situation, how you can change it and what you really want to do. I also liked the idea of creating your own job - a bespoke career – as well as Marie Curie’s life story as an example of working up to the career you want over time. It’s a concept that’s not as dramatic as handing in your notice and immediately jumping into something completely different but made more sense, at least to me.

The chapter on juggling parenting and a working life was the only part of the book I didn’t go for and that’s because I’m not a parent and don’t plan to be.

Otherwise, this book gave me a lot to think about, as I hoped it would, and is full of great ideas, advice and inspiring stories to help anyone looking to get an idea of what they really want to do with their working life and help them realise it. I didn’t come away from this knowing exactly what I want to do but I feel like it has pointed me in the right direction with an idea for figuring it out, and that’s very positive.