Discover Joy in Work - by Shundrawn A Thomas (Paperback)

About the Book

Addressing issues of work ethic, character formation, and work-life synergy, Thomas helps readers to a greater understanding of their abilities and passions, which in turn helps them find better harmony between what they do and who they are.

Book Synopsis

"As a dynamic leader in business, higher education, church ministry, civic engagement, and family life, Shundrawn Thomas knows how finding joy in our daily work can impact our personal well-being and professional success. In this enthralling book full of personal experiences and practical insights that come from his Christian convictions, Thomas guides his readers through a process of self-reflection that can transform the drudgery of a job into the joy of a calling that serves other people and gives glory to God." - Philip Ryken, president, Wheaton College

We are meant to experience joy in our work. But many of us struggle to find a sense of purpose or fulfillment in what we do. Is it possible for us to truly flourish in our work?

Business executive Shundrawn Thomas reveals how work is intended to produce lasting value and should be meaningful and productive. A healthy attitude toward work and the workplace requires intentionality and effort. Thomas helps us to a greater understanding of our abilities and passions, which in turn will help us develop into the people we are meant to be. He addresses issues of work ethic, character formation, and work-life synergy to find better harmony between whatwe do and who we are. Through empirical research and real-life stories, Thomas reveals fundamental truths in easy-to-remember concepts for joy at work regardless of occupation, age, or career stage.

You are designed to flourish in your workplace. Embark on a journey to transcend your occupation and discover your true vocation with your copy of Discover Joy in Work.

Review Quotes

"From the very beginning work has been a significant part of our human experience. And thankfully we are wired for it. Adam was built to work the garden and steward its beauty. But like everything else in life, managing what we are built for can be a challenging task in and of itself. So for all of us who are tempted to think that work is a necessary evil . . . we desperately need to read Shundrawn Thomas's revolutionary thoughts about how to turn our work from drudgery to joy!"

--JoeStowell, president, Cornerstone University

"In Shundrawn Thomas's Discover Joy in Work, I've found at last the book I've been seeking for the business people, professionals, and students looking for career guidance in my church. I love the fact that this book is both current in its research about issues related to occupation and vocation as well as rooted in sound theology and biblical understanding. Amazingly, it is also a wonderful read, filled with well-told stories and practical application. In reading this book, people's lives will be transformed as we begin to see our work not as something we have to do but as a place, people, and task to which God has sent us."

--Greg Waybright, senior pastor, Lake Avenue Church, Pasadena

"Shundrawn Thomas is a shining example of the power of merging purpose and profession to the glory of God. Discover Joy in Work is a timely invitation to experience God's best in your daily work."

--Nicholas Pearce, professor at Northwestern University, assistant pastor of Apostolic Church of God, author of The Purpose Path

"With Discover Joy in Work, Shundrawn brings an insightful and unique perspective to the age-old question of how we find joy in the work that we do every day. His book is a practical guide to the steps anyone can take to create a more fulfilling career journey and to love what they do."

--Lisa Warner Wardell, president and chief executive officer, Adtalem Global Education

"Discover Joy in Work is about transforming the way the worker sees work by understanding why God has us do it as stewards. What is amazing is that as you read this book you will see it not only can change the way you see work, it will change you as a person in ways that both include and go beyond your work."

--Darrell L. Bock, executive director for Cultural Engagement, Howard G. Hendricks Center for Christian Leadership and Cultural Engagement

"During my career I have had the opportunity to work with many exceptionally talented individuals all of whom, to a varying degree, have practiced some of what Shundrawn Thomas offers in this groundbreaking book. After reading Discover Joy in Work all of our views on work and the workplace will be significantly changed."

--Samuel C. Scott III, former president and chief executive officer, Corn Products, board director for Abbott Laboratories, Bank of New York Mellon and Motorola Solutions Inc.

"Most of us will spend many of our waking hours in our work environment. Few of us have reflected on how our work can be joyful. The author of this book was able to find joy in his work and transform his occupation into his vocation. As a result, he grew into the person he was becoming and in his contributions to those he worked with and those he served. Discover Joy in Work will open new opportunities for work to become a pathway to joy in your life."

--C. William Pollard, former chief executive officer, The ServiceMaster Company, and author of The Soul of the Firm

"With Discover Joy in Work, Shundrawn Thomas combines profound insights, practical experience, and vivid anecdotes to produce a road map for those seeking greater fulfillment in their work. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to grow professionally and personally."

--Leslie D. Hale, president and chief executive officer, RLJ Lodging Trust

About the Author

Shundrawn A. Thomas is president of a trillion-dollar global investment management business, and is a management group member of a leading financial services company. He previously advised institutional equity investors as a vice president for Goldman Sachs, and held positions in sales, trading, and research in the fixed income division of Morgan Stanley. He is an engaged civic leader serving as a trustee for Wheaton College and as a board director of the Museum of Science and Industry. Thomas is a motivational speaker and lecturer speaking nationally on topics including professional development, leadership, values, faith, strategy, and finance. He is the author of Ridiculous Faith: Ordinary People Living Extraordinary Lives, and Driving Under the Influence: Finding Your Way on the Road of Life.