When I started this project, I needed a name.
“Zen Cubicle” became my focal point.
“Zen” conjures up images of stones being stacked next to tranquil rivers, while “cubicle” inevitably points to confined workspaces.
It’s a juxtaposition of sorts.
Discomfort.
Contrasting ideas.
Have you ever seen a movie, or watched a TV series where the workspace cubicle epitomized a peaceful haven?
NO! Of course, you haven’t! Phones are ringing, fax machines are churning out truckloads of redundant paperwork.
Ok, that dates the movies I refer to, and myself.
But that’s beside the point.
“Zen” feels like it contrasts heavily with “cubicle.”
And that’s just what I was aiming for!
Yep, that one cliched and popular idea of Zen always equates peace, loving, and understanding. Which is but a part of the truth.
The way of Zen isn’t “just” a pacifist construct.
No. It’s a martial art. It prepares you for war!
At times you will need to defend yourself, recover from getting hit, attack, become agile and supple, and also retreat when it’s the most logical course of action.
For many, the goal, the result of seeing, and experiencing a peaceful-looking virtual “Zen Cubicle” often belies the reality of war!
Many offices have become war zones!
How many times have you heard the phrase, “There’s a target on your back! They are gunning for your job!”
What about something like this:
“I can’t turn my back for fear of getting knives stuck in it!”
Or, “there’s a nest of vipers in the boardroom!”
But you can, and should aim to reach a place of safety, where your physical, emotional, and mental well-being can thrive.
Getting there takes a lot of effort, blood, sweat, and tears.
And it’s an ongoing process!
Serenity often requires severity!
I’m passionate about discussing all things work-related, and how to improve that very large component of our daily lives.
Too many employees find themselves in a pit of despair- And see no way out.
This happens each minute, of each day.
Let’s find ways to illuminate it.
Here, the dialogue starts and continues.
I don’t have all the answers.
Sometimes, I don’t have any. And that’s perfectly fine!
But I do understand the importance of continuing the dialogue.
Meditate, practice mindulness, and talk!
Share the bad stories, but also the uplifting ones.
it’s important to understand and experience it all.
With love, and hope!
Matt
I want to encourage you to reach out, and ask questions.
Talk to me.
Here’s a handy email address you can use:
You can also find me on Slack.
Follow the invite-link.