Taking Root in the New Work World

By Mary Ann Faremouth, CPC

Recently, I have noticed many social media posts highlighting Malta as one of the world’s most beautiful places to visit, and even retire. Because my father was born there and lived on the island until he was twelve years old, Malta has always held a special place in my heart. Every visit reminds me not only of its breathtaking beauty but also of the life lessons I have learned from its resilient people, rich history, and enduring spirit.

As I reflect on today’s rapidly changing work world, I often think about how this small Mediterranean island endured extraordinary hardship during World War II. Malta was one of the most heavily bombed places during the war, yet its people remained steadfast, rebuilding with remarkable courage and determination. Their resilience continues to inspire me.

During my visits, I admired Malta’s magnificent cathedrals, beautiful beaches, exceptional cuisine, and charming shops. One detail I noticed repeatedly was the image of the Tree of Life, featured on souvenirs, jewelry, leather goods, and artwork. Curious about its significance, I asked a local resident why this symbol appeared so often. He explained that the Tree of Life represents hope, renewal, and strength. Its deep roots symbolize our origins and inner resilience, while its sturdy trunk represents the journey of life, connecting our past to a future filled with growth, opportunity, and abundance.

That symbolism immediately reminded me of the first step in my trademarked Faremouth Method: Do a Self-Inventory.

Behavioral science researcher Jo Ann Raptis beautifully captures the spirit of the Tree of Life:

Be Like a Tree

Stay Grounded

Connect With Your Roots

Turn Over a New Leaf

Bend Before You Break

Keep Growing

As a recruiter and career coach, I speak daily with employers and professionals navigating constant change. Technology, evolving industries, shifting workplace expectations, and economic uncertainty continue to reshape careers. While everyone’s circumstances are different, success often comes down to resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to continue growing. The Tree of Life offers a powerful reminder that, like trees, we become stronger when our roots are deep and our vision remains focused on growth.

Just as the people of Malta persevered through unimaginable hardship, we too can find strength during periods of transition. Trees withstand powerful storms because their roots run deep. Likewise, our greatest challenges often become the foundation for our greatest growth.

Here are six valuable lessons the Tree of Life can teach us in today’s work world.

1. Be Like a Tree

Every tree is unique, just as every individual possesses unique talents, experiences, and perspectives. The demands of everyday life often leave little time for reflection, yet taking a step back allows us to rediscover our strengths and recognize where we can continue to grow.

When we invest in our natural abilities and develop them intentionally, we not only create greater personal fulfillment but also make meaningful contributions to those around us.

2. Stay Grounded

No matter what challenges arise, organizational change, career transitions, economic uncertainty, or personal setbacks, remaining grounded is essential. Staying connected to your values and maintaining perspective allows you to navigate change with confidence rather than fear.

The professionals who remain steady during difficult times often become trusted leaders because they demonstrate resilience, reliability, and the ability to persevere when others lose focus.

3. Connect With Your Roots

Connecting with your roots can mean learning about your ancestry, reflecting on your life experiences, or remembering the people who helped shape your values and confidence.

For me, those conversations with my father about Malta, along with the guidance I received from my Aunt Esther while sitting on her porch in Florida as I searched for direction after high school, reminded me to recognize my strengths and trust my abilities.

Your roots may also include passions you’ve neglected over the years. If you’ve always enjoyed painting, writing, crafting, music, or another creative outlet, perhaps now is the time to reconnect with it. Whether your roots are personal, professional, or creative, honoring them can bring renewed purpose and fulfillment.

4. Turn Over a New Leaf

Career growth often requires us to embrace new opportunities and think differently about our skills.

Perhaps you’ve spent years in one industry but possess transferable strengths that could thrive somewhere entirely new. Updating your resume, refining your professional brand, embracing new technologies, and highlighting your transferable skills can open doors you never imagined.

Sometimes turning over a new leaf means reinventing yourself rather than simply finding another job.

5. Bend Before You Break

Change is rarely comfortable, but resisting it often creates greater hardship.

If your industry is evolving or your role is changing, remain open to adapting your skills and mindset. Flexibility is one of today’s most valuable professional strengths. When we learn to bend instead of resisting every change, we position ourselves for long-term success and personal well-being.

6. Keep Growing

Growth should never stop.

Whether through continuing education, professional certifications, mentorship, reading, or simply remaining curious, lifelong learning keeps us relevant and engaged.

Stepping outside our comfort zone often leads to opportunities we never expected. Every new experience expands our perspective, strengthens our confidence, and prepares us for whatever comes next.

The Tree of Life has long been recognized as a sacred symbol across many cultures, representing resilience, wisdom, renewal, and the interconnectedness of life. Every great tree begins as a single seed and, with nourishment and perseverance, develops remarkable strength.

Just as the people of Malta endured tremendous hardship during World War II and ultimately emerged stronger, we too have the capacity to overcome adversity and thrive. Life’s challenges may test us, but they can also reveal strengths we never knew we possessed.

The Tree of Life reminds us that growth is always possible. Every challenge presents an opportunity to develop new strengths, discover new directions, and become more deeply rooted in who we are. If you ever have the opportunity to visit the remarkable island of Malta, I encourage you to do so. Beyond its stunning landscapes and fascinating history, Malta offers a timeless lesson in resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Mary Ann’s award-winning first book Revolutionary Recruiting has been listed by Book Authority as Number #1 Best 100 Recruiting Books; #1 Best Seller, Non-Fiction, Amazon (2019); Top 20 Recruiting books, Recruitics; Readers’ Choice finalist (2019), Houston Literary Awards; Best Non-Fiction (2018), Best Cover (2019), and Best Self-Help (2018), Authors Marketing Guild. This was followed by “Revolutionary Reinvention”, a workbook for job seekers giving advice on how to rediscover your skills and passions and reinvent your career. Her most recent book is “Revolutionary Results” , a collection of life lessons about relationships, integrity and contributing to the world.