As kids, we knew exactly what we were going to be when we grew up: a ballerina, an astronaut, a firefighter, a policeman, the president, and even a princess. When we were seven, we weren’t concerned about whether our job would bring a high paycheck, or if it was impressive and prominent. Our only concern was whether or not it would make us happy. And yes, while majority of our childhood dream professions are things that could most definitely be pursued in the future, they aren’t practical. And by a certain age we have to let go of that innocence and step into reality.
Because people are so concerned with thriving, and searching for a profession that pays the bills, while still warranting them the respect, they forget to ask themselves whether or not what they’re working towards is going to give them the satisfaction of being simply what they desired for when they were little kids, happiness. Isn’t that in the end, all that matters?
Yet, I’ve learned throughout the years that’s it’s exceedingly difficult to find the balance between finding a job that keeps you economically in check, while still keeping you pleased.
A job as a lawyer will guarantee you respect, but it won’t ensure you happiness. And it may be true that working at an investment bank will pay your rent, however it’s not going to keep you persistently satisfied. Thus, is there really a way to find a profession that brings fulfillment, while keeping you with enough change in your pocket?
Most people rather choose the career choice that makes them happy and content, but with the recession, it’s almost as if that’s not a probability anymore. The economy has been declining every since 2007, and it doesn’t look like there’s any progress being done. That being said, is it really obligatory for us to settle for something we don’t feel passionate about? Do we really even have an option?
It might sound utterly ridiculous for people to suppose that a sixteen year old would be thinking about something way into the future, but with my constant observation of the people and the environment around me, I can’t help but wonder if in fact, success really does overrule happiness.
Are we better off settling with something that seems admirable to the rest of the world, even when it only brings us the slenderest bit of joy? Or is there a way to put two of these mindsets together?
