Callings can take different shapes: Scope, proximity and duration as new complexifications of calling

Abstract

Recent research on calling has highlighted its nature as a ‘double-edged sword’ that—while conferring benefits generally—may create vulnerabilities in some cases. We suggest an explanation that complexifies our conceptualization of what calling is. Traditional conceptualizations of calling focus on differences in degree, measuring calling on some numerical scale to answer the question, ‘To what degree do you perceive a calling?’ Our proposed conceptualization of calling argues for differences in the shape of calling, arguing that calling can take different shapes based on three facets: scope (callings can differ between narrow and broad), time proximity (callings can differ between immediate and distal) and duration (callings can differ between short-term and lifelong). We present a new model depicting these shapes of calling, explain how each advances our understanding of calling above and beyond existing conceptualizations and taxonomies and offer propositions as to how this new conceptualization provides insight into individuals' experiences of pursuing their calling.