The problem of work

Work constitutes a central existential challenge, profoundly shaping identity, purpose, and daily life. This chapter examines the many dimensions of “the problem of work,” including its ability to consume time, drain energy, and often fail to provide meaning. While some individuals find fulfillment in their occupations, surveys reveal that the majority experience dissatisfaction, suggesting that the difficulty lies not only in individual attitudes but also in the very nature of work itself. The discussion explores tensions between survival needs and the quest for meaningful labor. Through case material, the chapter illustrates how existential wellness coaching can aid clients in confronting work-related struggles. Ten coaching tactics are outlined, ranging from reframing work as a transaction, clarifying sources of meaning beyond employment, and cultivating tolerance for meaning gaps to supporting career transitions and the mindful naming of tasks. These strategies demonstrate how existential wellness coaches can help clients reorient their relationship with work, whether through creating new ventures, enhancing meaning-making within existing roles, or acknowledging existential realities of dissatisfaction. Ultimately, the chapter argues that work, in all its forms—profession, occupation, or daily task—demands serious attention from helpers, given its pervasive role in both sustaining life and shaping existential wellness.