What the ancient Indian text Bhagavad Gita can teach about not putting too much of our identity and emotions into work

A scholar of South Asian religions explains how one lesson from the text, ‘nishkama karma’ – or acting without desire – may be useful for navigating the contemporary workplace.

By: Robert J. Stephens, Clemson University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 11, 2026

Words: 1,290

Last Updated: 3 months, 3 weeks ago

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By Robert J. Stephens, Clemson University

A 2023 Gallup poll found that U.S. employees are generally unhappy at work. The number of those who feel angry and disconnected with their organization’s mission is climbing.

An analysis of data from 60,000 employees by BambooHR, an HR software platform, also found that workplace morale was getting worse: “Employees aren’t experiencing highs or lows — instead, they are expressing a sense of resignation or even apathy.” …

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