Have you ever hit a wall in your successful career and wondered, “Is this really all there is?” In this first part of a profound three-part series, I sit down with purpose-driven coach Anita Čavrag to explore the rich and often misunderstood terrain of meaning, passion, and purpose at work.

Anita shares her journey of leaving a prestigious but unfulfilling career in HR to pursue coaching, and we dive deep into why so many high-achievers feel empty despite outward success.

We unpack the subtle but powerful differences between passion and purpose, how to spot a work identity crisis, and the real reasons why that “spark” might feel like it’s missing.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever questioned their professional path and craves more meaning in what they do. Anita brings thought-provoking insights and lived experience to the table, and this is just the beginning.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The difference between passion and purpose in the context of career
• Why success can sometimes feel hollow, especially in mid-career
• The subtle emotional and existential signs of work misalignment
• How language shapes our understanding of what we really want
• The role of exemplars and social proof in expanding what we believe is possible
• Practical steps to identify what’s truly missing from your work life

This is just the beginning of an enlightening series with Anita Čavrag. If you found value in this conversation, be sure to listen to parts two and three when they’re released. Anita and Michelle delve into the emotional, physical, and psychological toll of ignoring one’s purpose, and how to recognize the signs before burnout sets in.

Resources & Links:

• Connect with Anita Čavrag – Website
• Follow Anita on Facebook
• Follow Anita on LinkedIn
• Part 2 of this interview: Ignoring Your Calling: The Cost of Misalignment at Work and What to Do About It
• Part 3 of 3: Reframing Reality and Redefining Work (Coming Soon)

Don’t forget to rate, review, and share the podcast if you enjoyed this episode. It helps others discover the show and join the conversation. Until next time, take care.

Support the show

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE:

• Instagram @michelledowker_wellbalance
• Facebook @michelledowkerwellbalance
• Email [email protected]

FREE:

Name your real gifts & start aligning your work with who you actually are now. https://michelledowker.thrivecart.com/chart-your-power/

WORK WITH MICHELLE:

Soul Purpose Diagnostic — A fast, focused chart review for paradigm-shifting professionals ready to lead from their real design https://michelledowker.thrivecart.com/diagnostic/

Soul Purpose Lab — Step into the next chapter of your purpose work with a full-body "Yes. That's it.". https://michelledowker.thrivecart.com/purpose-lab/

Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational & inspirational purposes only. Nothing shared is intended as medical, psychological, or personalized advice, and should not be used as a substitute for professional support.