Is your work “worth it”?
That provocative question was central to our 2024 Author’s Breakfast event. More than 170 executives from the Navigate Forward community gathered on October 2 at the Metropolitan Ballroom for professional networking, a stimulating talk by author Christopher Wong Michaelson, and insightful discussion about our own perspectives on work.
All attendees received a complimentary copy of Michaelson’s book, Is Your Worth Worth It?, courtesy of our sponsor, NorthRock Partners.
Meaningful Work Happens When Values Align
Michaelson’s book and the conversations he facilitated emphasized the importance of aligning our work with our personal values, passions, and life goals. Often, the true value of work lies in the impact we make on others, rather than financial gain.
He shared stories from his own family, as well as the extensive research that he and his co-author have conducted.
A Premium on Empathy, Community Impact, Relationships and Personal Growth
Attendees took time to discuss three related topics in small groups, then share their perspectives with the full room:
- What is your most “worthy” work?
- What “worthy work” do you still aspire to do?
- What advice will you impart on the next generation as part of your legacy?
Our community’s responses revealed that worthy work is deeply personal. Several common themes emerged around mentorship, family, community impact, personal growth and exploration. There’s a strong desire to make a positive impact, support others and engage in fulfilling work.
The collective wisdom emphasized kindness, authenticity, continuous growth and the importance of relationships. Attendees aspire to impart a legacy of empathy, resilience and purpose, guiding the next generation to navigate their paths with intention and care.
>> You can access the full insights from attendees in this Author’s Breakfast summary.
Planning a Rewarding Second Act
If you’re inspired with this topic and considering your own “worthy work,” Navigate Forward’s newest executive service, Legacy Planning, may be of interest.
It’s a natural extension of our work with executives and allows us to support senior leaders who want to plan beyond their corporate careers. Legacy Planning is ideal for those who want to make thoughtful and intentional transitions from full-time work to retirement or a next chapter, such as corporate board work, consulting, community service, part-time work, speaking or teaching.
Legacy Planning includes our popular Board Readiness service.
Rekindling Professional Connections, Meeting New People
Before and after our keynote discussion, attendees had the opportunity to connect with other senior leaders from around the Twin Cities. Many of the Navigate Forward staff were also in attendance.
As is our tradition, we awarded two “Charity of Choice” contributions. We donated $250 to the International Red Cross as selected by Michaelson. We then drew one name from all attendees and made a donation of $250 to the Animal Humane Society on behalf of Cino Adelson.
We enjoyed the opportunity to once again gather together our community of executives and supporters in person. We look forward to seeing you at a future event!
Helpful Links
>> View the 2024 Author’s Breakfast photo gallery
