14 answers
Laura
Student
1
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Why do we need to pick a job and be happy with it?
Why is it so hard to find a job that suits yourself?
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14 answers
Gayatri Mohan
2
Answers
Updated
Gayatri’s Answer
Hi Laura,
You might have heard the saying "love what you do, and you'll never work a day in your life." I used to hear this a lot growing up and I put a lot of pressure on myself to love my job. What I've learned 12 years into my career though is that you don't necessarily have to love your job, and you certainly don't have to love it everyday. There will be days you don't enjoy your work, or have tough situations at your workplace. And then there will be days that you genuinely enjoy, and moments when you find that you're so engaged in your work, you don't even know how much time has gone by (what they call being in a state of flow).
My advice to you would be to think about why work is important to you. Is it because you want to afford a certain lifestyle for yourself and your current / future family? Is it because you want to make a certain kind of impact for a cause / problem in the world that you really care about? What are your personal reasons for investing your time and energy into work? This will help you keep going even when your work is challenging or unfulfilling.
I just want to re-iterate - know that you're not doing anything wrong, or you're not necessarily in the wrong job / career, just because you don't love it or love it everyday! Find your reason to work and it'll help you balance your priorities throughout the different stages of your life.
You might have heard the saying "love what you do, and you'll never work a day in your life." I used to hear this a lot growing up and I put a lot of pressure on myself to love my job. What I've learned 12 years into my career though is that you don't necessarily have to love your job, and you certainly don't have to love it everyday. There will be days you don't enjoy your work, or have tough situations at your workplace. And then there will be days that you genuinely enjoy, and moments when you find that you're so engaged in your work, you don't even know how much time has gone by (what they call being in a state of flow).
My advice to you would be to think about why work is important to you. Is it because you want to afford a certain lifestyle for yourself and your current / future family? Is it because you want to make a certain kind of impact for a cause / problem in the world that you really care about? What are your personal reasons for investing your time and energy into work? This will help you keep going even when your work is challenging or unfulfilling.
I just want to re-iterate - know that you're not doing anything wrong, or you're not necessarily in the wrong job / career, just because you don't love it or love it everyday! Find your reason to work and it'll help you balance your priorities throughout the different stages of your life.
Mary Dudani
5
Answers
New Haven, Connecticut
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Great question! The idea that we need to pick a single job and be content with it feels outdated today. It's important to embrace lifelong learning and growth, allowing us to explore different roles and industries throughout life. Many of us have varied interests and talents, and trying out different jobs at different stages can lead to a more fulfilling and enriched experience. Being flexible and adaptable is key in today's ever-changing job market, helping us stay resilient against economic uncertainties and industry changes. Plus, having diverse job experiences offers unique opportunities for personal development, networking, etc.
It's also very important for mental health. In my previous job, I felt unfulfilled and lacked support and interest, which negatively impacted my self-esteem and how I viewed myself in the workplace. Maintaining work-life balance is crucial, and while some might not prioritize it, there are times when being selfish about your career is necessary to achieve fulfillment. Prioritizing your mental well-being and job satisfaction can lead to a more rewarding and balanced life.
I hope this helps!
It's also very important for mental health. In my previous job, I felt unfulfilled and lacked support and interest, which negatively impacted my self-esteem and how I viewed myself in the workplace. Maintaining work-life balance is crucial, and while some might not prioritize it, there are times when being selfish about your career is necessary to achieve fulfillment. Prioritizing your mental well-being and job satisfaction can lead to a more rewarding and balanced life.
I hope this helps!
Mary, thank you!
Laura
Great Questions!!!
Tap into your super powers and things you are passionate about. You want your career to be something you love and not a chore. You be at your job roughly 8 hours a day and if you don't enjoy what you do it will impact the way you show up.
Zaniah Green
Yes thank youuu!
Laura
Nicolas Malo
Sales Enablement Manager
2
Answers
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Updated
Nicolas’s Answer
Hi there! My two cents: As you grow / get older, you may realize that there are some skills that seem to come naturally to you. Everyone is different and have different skills. For example, you may find that you are better than most at people skills, technology, arts, sports, etc.
I think the most enjoyable work is one that leverages your interests and utilizes the skills you enjoy developing. The best part about skills is they can be learned so also don't limit yourself to what you can do now.. Never underestimate the value your skills can provide!
For me specifically, as a Sales Enablement Manager, I get joy in knowing that I am bringing value and helping other succeed and that I'm am contributing to the collective effort.
If a job doesn't yet exist that fits everything you are looking for, invent it!
I think the most enjoyable work is one that leverages your interests and utilizes the skills you enjoy developing. The best part about skills is they can be learned so also don't limit yourself to what you can do now.. Never underestimate the value your skills can provide!
For me specifically, as a Sales Enablement Manager, I get joy in knowing that I am bringing value and helping other succeed and that I'm am contributing to the collective effort.
If a job doesn't yet exist that fits everything you are looking for, invent it!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Laura
Will Xue, CFA
Manager at PwC
102
Answers
Updated
Will’s Answer
Hello Laura,
Congratulations on joining CareerVillage and on posting your first question! You're off to a great start!
JC has some excellent points, and I'd like to expand on them with a few more reasons why it might be tough to find a job that feels just right for you:
- Networking challenges: Sometimes, finding the perfect job can be tough if you don't have many opportunities to network. Building professional connections can open doors to job leads that are a great match for your interests and skills.
- Experience gaps: A lot of employers look for candidates who have relevant work experience. If you're new to the field, it might be a bit difficult to land a job that's a perfect fit, especially in fields where competition is high.
- Unconscious bias and discrimination: Unfortunately, unconscious bias, discrimination, and systemic barriers can sometimes stand in the way of finding a job that's right for you. Factors like age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status can sometimes influence hiring decisions, making it harder for some people to find their ideal job.
Remember, these challenges are not insurmountable. With determination and perseverance, you can overcome them and find a job that suits you perfectly. Keep going, Laura!
Congratulations on joining CareerVillage and on posting your first question! You're off to a great start!
JC has some excellent points, and I'd like to expand on them with a few more reasons why it might be tough to find a job that feels just right for you:
- Networking challenges: Sometimes, finding the perfect job can be tough if you don't have many opportunities to network. Building professional connections can open doors to job leads that are a great match for your interests and skills.
- Experience gaps: A lot of employers look for candidates who have relevant work experience. If you're new to the field, it might be a bit difficult to land a job that's a perfect fit, especially in fields where competition is high.
- Unconscious bias and discrimination: Unfortunately, unconscious bias, discrimination, and systemic barriers can sometimes stand in the way of finding a job that's right for you. Factors like age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status can sometimes influence hiring decisions, making it harder for some people to find their ideal job.
Remember, these challenges are not insurmountable. With determination and perseverance, you can overcome them and find a job that suits you perfectly. Keep going, Laura!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Laura
Kandel A. Allard
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kandel A.’s Answer
Excellent question!
In today's world, there's a lot of pressure to decide on your life's direction from an early age. The traditional way was to choose a career path and stick to it, working for one or two companies at the most until you retire. But that was in the past - things have evolved. Balancing your passion, work-life harmony, and the current economic realities has become increasingly challenging.
Here's my advice to help you navigate this journey: Firstly, pinpoint what truly ignites your passion. Secondly, investigate what it would take to turn that passion into a reality. And thirdly, seek out a position within a company that resonates with your core values. If, after all this, you feel like you haven't found your "thing," don't worry! Start over from the first step. Remember, it's never too late to revisit your purpose or to pursue your ultimate joy and success.
In today's world, there's a lot of pressure to decide on your life's direction from an early age. The traditional way was to choose a career path and stick to it, working for one or two companies at the most until you retire. But that was in the past - things have evolved. Balancing your passion, work-life harmony, and the current economic realities has become increasingly challenging.
Here's my advice to help you navigate this journey: Firstly, pinpoint what truly ignites your passion. Secondly, investigate what it would take to turn that passion into a reality. And thirdly, seek out a position within a company that resonates with your core values. If, after all this, you feel like you haven't found your "thing," don't worry! Start over from the first step. Remember, it's never too late to revisit your purpose or to pursue your ultimate joy and success.
Thank you so much, Kandel A.!
Laura
Gilbert Betancourt
I support agencies in the sales process
7
Answers
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Updated
Gilbert’s Answer
That's a great question, Laura.
When I was much younger, perhaps around your age, I asked myself the same question. At that time, society guided us toward very formal jobs, and we had to follow that pattern. However, over time, I realized that the most important thing is to do what you love the most. Jobs are meant to generate income and allow us to be part of all the things we enjoy—traveling, spending time with family, and indulging in some pleasures. But if we can enjoy our work while doing it, that's the best. In many cases, you can end up being employed by your own company, which is even better because you'll enjoy your time and manage your own schedule.
In conclusion, don't let the job choose you; choose what you truly love.
When I was much younger, perhaps around your age, I asked myself the same question. At that time, society guided us toward very formal jobs, and we had to follow that pattern. However, over time, I realized that the most important thing is to do what you love the most. Jobs are meant to generate income and allow us to be part of all the things we enjoy—traveling, spending time with family, and indulging in some pleasures. But if we can enjoy our work while doing it, that's the best. In many cases, you can end up being employed by your own company, which is even better because you'll enjoy your time and manage your own schedule.
In conclusion, don't let the job choose you; choose what you truly love.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Laura
David Green
Data Engineer
14
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
David’s Answer
Some people live to work, meaning they truly love their job and career and putting in the work time is effortless for them. Most people live to work, meaning you're doing what you need to do in order to earn a living and support yourself and your family as an adult. There are many factors involved in enjoying your job and work environment: your work style and how it fits with the company/team work environment, your coworkers and how well you get along with them, the actual work tasks/projects are engaging and challenging enough for you, work/life balance, and other things of importance to you. If work itself is still unenjoyable, then think of it as a means to an end. Utilize all retirement plan resources, aggressively saving as much money as you can, in order to be financially independent enough to pursue what truly matters to you.
Mike Harvey
Vice President Revenue Operations
6
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Mike’s Answer
It's important to find jobs that make you happy because you will be working for a long time to support yourself and family.
Spending all day working gets old pretty quick unless you truly enjoy what you are doing.
Follow your passions through school and into the workforce and enjoy the journey!
Spending all day working gets old pretty quick unless you truly enjoy what you are doing.
Follow your passions through school and into the workforce and enjoy the journey!
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Laura
Frances Ho
consultant
4
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Frances’s Answer
My honest opinion is that you don't have to love your job but it's best not to hate it, and even better if you like it. I love being on vacation more than working; I think very few people can claim otherwise. But we have to work because we need to provide financial support for ourselves and our family. Prioritize what is important to you in life and find the balance. Also remember, there are always ups and downs in any job - sometimes the path to get to the "ideal job" is bumpy so stay resilient and persistent.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Laura,
Why do we need to pick a job and be happy with it?
Choosing a job and finding happiness in it is essential for several reasons:
Financial Stability: Having a job provides financial stability, allowing individuals to support themselves and their families, pay bills, save for the future, and enjoy a certain standard of living.
Personal Fulfillment: Finding a job that aligns with one’s interests, skills, and values can lead to personal fulfillment and satisfaction. When individuals enjoy what they do, they are more likely to feel fulfilled and motivated.
Professional Growth: Working in a job that suits one’s strengths and interests can promote professional growth and development. It allows individuals to enhance their skills, gain experience, and progress in their careers.
Mental Well-being: Engaging in meaningful work that brings joy and satisfaction can positively impact mental well-being. It can reduce stress, boost self-esteem, and contribute to overall happiness.
Contribution to Society: Many jobs provide opportunities to make a positive impact on society or help others. Feeling like one’s work is meaningful and contributes to the greater good can increase job satisfaction.
Sense of Purpose: Having a job that resonates with one’s values and goals can give individuals a sense of purpose and direction in life. It provides structure and meaning to daily activities.
Why is it so hard to find a job that suits yourself?
Finding a job that perfectly aligns with one’s preferences and aspirations can be challenging due to various factors:
Competitive Job Market: In today’s competitive job market, there may be limited opportunities available in specific fields or industries, making it harder to secure a job that suits one’s preferences.
Mismatched Skills: Sometimes individuals may lack the necessary skills or qualifications required for their ideal job, leading to difficulties in finding suitable employment.
Changing Job Trends: Job trends evolve over time, with some industries experiencing growth while others decline. Keeping up with these changes and finding a job that matches current trends can be daunting.
Personal Preferences vs. Job Availability: Individuals may have specific preferences regarding work environment, company culture, or job responsibilities that may not always align with available job openings.
Lack of Clarity: Some individuals may struggle to identify their true passions, strengths, or career goals, making it challenging to find a job that suits them perfectly.
Location Constraints: Geographic location can also play a role in limiting job options. Certain industries or roles may be more prevalent in specific regions, restricting choices for some individuals.
In conclusion, while finding the ideal job that brings happiness and fulfillment is desirable, various factors such as market conditions, personal preferences, skills mismatch, and changing trends can make this pursuit challenging for many individuals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Forbes
God Bless You,
JC.
Why do we need to pick a job and be happy with it?
Choosing a job and finding happiness in it is essential for several reasons:
Financial Stability: Having a job provides financial stability, allowing individuals to support themselves and their families, pay bills, save for the future, and enjoy a certain standard of living.
Personal Fulfillment: Finding a job that aligns with one’s interests, skills, and values can lead to personal fulfillment and satisfaction. When individuals enjoy what they do, they are more likely to feel fulfilled and motivated.
Professional Growth: Working in a job that suits one’s strengths and interests can promote professional growth and development. It allows individuals to enhance their skills, gain experience, and progress in their careers.
Mental Well-being: Engaging in meaningful work that brings joy and satisfaction can positively impact mental well-being. It can reduce stress, boost self-esteem, and contribute to overall happiness.
Contribution to Society: Many jobs provide opportunities to make a positive impact on society or help others. Feeling like one’s work is meaningful and contributes to the greater good can increase job satisfaction.
Sense of Purpose: Having a job that resonates with one’s values and goals can give individuals a sense of purpose and direction in life. It provides structure and meaning to daily activities.
Why is it so hard to find a job that suits yourself?
Finding a job that perfectly aligns with one’s preferences and aspirations can be challenging due to various factors:
Competitive Job Market: In today’s competitive job market, there may be limited opportunities available in specific fields or industries, making it harder to secure a job that suits one’s preferences.
Mismatched Skills: Sometimes individuals may lack the necessary skills or qualifications required for their ideal job, leading to difficulties in finding suitable employment.
Changing Job Trends: Job trends evolve over time, with some industries experiencing growth while others decline. Keeping up with these changes and finding a job that matches current trends can be daunting.
Personal Preferences vs. Job Availability: Individuals may have specific preferences regarding work environment, company culture, or job responsibilities that may not always align with available job openings.
Lack of Clarity: Some individuals may struggle to identify their true passions, strengths, or career goals, making it challenging to find a job that suits them perfectly.
Location Constraints: Geographic location can also play a role in limiting job options. Certain industries or roles may be more prevalent in specific regions, restricting choices for some individuals.
In conclusion, while finding the ideal job that brings happiness and fulfillment is desirable, various factors such as market conditions, personal preferences, skills mismatch, and changing trends can make this pursuit challenging for many individuals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Forbes
God Bless You,
JC.
Your advice was so helpful!
Laura
Lydia Gray
Consultant
8
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Lydia’s Answer
Picking a job has a lot of layers to it. Ideally you find something that you love to do and find a way to make a career out of it. But, there is no contract that says what you pick is what you have to do for the rest of your life. You will find yourself throughout various stages of life and learn what you like vs what you do not enjoy. Using each job/phase of life as a learning experience for yourself to identify what you truly enjoy is the best way to figure out what job is right for you. And that job might change as you get older and learn more about yourself.
Kevin Zielinski
Sales Operations Manager
3
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Virtually everyone needs to work in a job/career in order to generate the financial means necessary to live the life you want.
For most of us, that will mean working 8-10 hours a day, 5+ days per week, for decades!! Life is short, and that work represents a huge part of your life that you will devote to a job/career.
It only makes sense that if you are going to invest that much of your time toward work, it better be something that:
(1) makes you happy and leaves you feeling like you made a meaningful difference
(2) allows you to interact with people that you enjoy
(3) is something that you can look forward to doing when you wake up each day you go to work
(4) rewards you in a way you believe is fair for your contributions
If you can't check these boxes, time to consider a different job or career path. The decisions sits with you. Good luck!!
For most of us, that will mean working 8-10 hours a day, 5+ days per week, for decades!! Life is short, and that work represents a huge part of your life that you will devote to a job/career.
It only makes sense that if you are going to invest that much of your time toward work, it better be something that:
(1) makes you happy and leaves you feeling like you made a meaningful difference
(2) allows you to interact with people that you enjoy
(3) is something that you can look forward to doing when you wake up each day you go to work
(4) rewards you in a way you believe is fair for your contributions
If you can't check these boxes, time to consider a different job or career path. The decisions sits with you. Good luck!!
Thanks for the advice.
Laura
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1858
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. I think the career you have interest is the best career for you. Imagine that you have to work in the job 8-10 hours every day, it is really very difficult if you have not interest on that job.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Laura
casey may
Marketing Director
5
Answers
Holden, Massachusetts
Updated
casey’s Answer
Life is too short to not enjoy what you are doing everyday. Days are long and years are short, as you progress in your career, start a family and have a multitude of adult responsibilities you will realize how important job satisfaction is!
Thank you so much, casey!
Laura