Does work really matter?

To get the answer to that question we will have to look at some fairly standard truisms given by people as the reason for going to work.

1. Through work I meet my own basic needs and those of my family. Few would disagree with that statement but if it studied carefully it is obvious that by working you are in effect fulfilling a scared trust that clearly demonstrates self-respect and a love of your family.

2. Through work I can serve people. In the Force we are lucky to be in a profession that so obviously 'serves' people by protecting lives and property in various ways, day in and day out. There may be differences in the tasks performed by the frontline officers and the supporting staff, yet we all work as a team or system that provides high quality service to the community.

3. Through work we earn to give to others. If you work, you have the opportunity to use part of your earnings to make donations to help those in need. Since you are self-sufficient you can also help by applying your skills and experience as a voluntary worker. For example, children tend to look up to us as role models and neighbourhood associations will always welcome advice on how to fight against crime.

4. Through work we develop ourselves. Work creates challenges that have to be faced and this gives motivation and inspiration, which ignites our nerves to act. Through work we explore our own potential, nurture it and develop it and, in doing so, the experience enhances our wisdom. Furthermore, a basic desire to be continuously associated with fellow human beings can be fruitfully fulfilled at work.

If that has convinced you that your work really does matter it is time to consider ways in which to make it pleasurable as well as meaningful. That will be covered in the next issue.

Stress management workshops

The PSG is organising a series of stress management workshops to be conducted in Chinese. The next one is at the PSRC Sportsman Bar on September 20 from 8.45 am to 12.30 pm. Participants are requested to arrive 15 minutes before the programme starts. There are 30 places for each session and these will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. To make a reservation contact PSG at 2866-6207.

Seek advice and help from the Psychological Services Group: PHQ, Hong Kong Island and Marine: 2866-6206 (5/F, 111 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay); Kowloon and the New Territories: 2735-3739 (22/F, Ocean Building, 80 Shanghai Street, Kowloon). PEN: psg@police. gov.hk

"Through work I can serve people"