You Can Make a Career Out of Any Job As Long As You Shift Your Mindset

When we think of careers some things that may come to mind include: company pension, retirement plan, health benefits, PTO, etc. However, in today's economy we're lucky if most employers provider health benefits and maybe a small retirement account. So the main question is: what do we consider a career?

In my not-so-humble opinion, a career is any position in the workforce that allows you to make the income necessary to support your family. It doesn't matter if you're working two jobs in the same industry, for example, let's say you have a serving job and a job as a hotel desk clerk. You could say I've had a career in hospitality for X number of years. Voila! A career! Or if you worked as a house cleaner this can still be a career. I feel, if we rely on societal standards for what qualifies a career, we will only be looking at doctors, lawyers, and bankers. But if we broaden our perspectives we will see that there are more options out there than what was originally presented to us.

On a similar note it is okay to move up or to choose to stay in the position you're in for as long as you're happy in it. I think if we prioritize our happiness above chasing a grand sum of money, we will learn to live within our means and have a better quality of life. When most people find that balance between making ends meet and having a job they actually enjoy they do better. Simultaneously, when my managers found out I had an MBA but was a server, their first question was why? I explained: I much prefer the shorter hours and higher pay that comes with serving so I can experiment with different business plans and ventures so I can maximize my income while living within the bounds and necessities of my mental health. Then they said "ok" but if you ever want to go farther here, let us know. For which, I am exceedingly grateful, because truthfully, you never know.

Don't be afraid to set your own course if it will allow you to put yourself first and feed your family. There is nothing wrong with being happy, no matter what society says.

Happy Budgeting!

Ellie/TBM