Present of Work is a practice community helping people transform their relationship
with work — without needing to quit their jobs. Through monthly skill-building sessions,
learning cohorts, and peer support, the community creates spaces for individuals and teams
to experiment with alternatives to extractive work. Its programs incorporate principles
of the gift economy, non-hierarchical governance, and right livelihood practices.
Drawing from traditions such as Warm Data, Sociocracy, and Dharma teachings,
Present of Work bridges contemplative practice with community organizing to help workers,
leaders, and organizations discover more life-affirming ways of working. As they put it:
“The revolution will not be optimized. It will be organized.”
Carol Xu, co-founder of Present of Work, holds a Ph.D. in Management Science and Engineering
from Stanford University. She designs experiential programs that integrate contemplative,
creative, and strategic approaches to organizational transformation.
BK is a systems thinker and organizational coach with over a decade of experience in the tech sector, dedicated to helping communities design work structures grounded in creativity, transparency, and contemplative practice.