Since writing my last entry almost two years ago, I have had two jobs and one revelation. I actually like what I do. I’ve gradually become aware of the “fact” that I, and most others, do what we do (in my own biased and badly flawed opinion) because on some level we like the job, or an aspect of the job at least. I know that there are some people who are trapped in their jobs because of a commitment, contract or because they simply cannot afford to chance their, or their families, financial future on jumping from the security of the frying pan into the flames. But the vast majority of people who didn’t grow up with their life planned out, fall into what they do because they like it. We, as a species, tend to gloss over the bits of life that we did not like or succeed at. However, when we make these choices, we tend to do so when we’re younger and put all of the choices made then into the experimentation category – relationships, drugs, friends, fashion, music, hairstyles, and yes – jobs. The main reason we stay put is fear and ignorance of the amount of choice in front of us. Really – take yourself for a long talk and ask yourself who you are and what it is you want out of life. The two catches are as follows…
1. When you answer the who you are question you need to be able to tell yourself the truth. No sense in telling yourself you are kind and charitable when you don’t even see the beggars on the street.
2. When you answer the what do you want question, you need to look into how much this goal will cost. We all want to be rich and famous, but those few that are, have sacrificed much of themselves to achieve this. The cost of some things will be time, energy, effort – so far so good. Some things may cost friendships, relationships with your partner, parents and children, Still worth it? And other things may cost you your values, your morals, your health and your integrity. As with number 1, you need to be honest about the cost versus the gain. If you’re aware of and with happy with the cost, then great.
Sometimes, doing what you do isn’t so bad.
