HOW MUCH WILL YOU SACRIFICE FOR YOUR CAREER?

HOW MUCH WILL YOU SACRIFICE FOR YOUR CAREER?

Last week, Mr. and Mrs. PoPs from Planting our Pennies discussed the guilt some people feel when quitting their jobs. Honestly, I can’t relate to this feeling. To me, a job is just that—a job. My boss pays me to perform tasks, and if I become less productive or profitable, he wouldn’t hesitate to let me go. So, why should I worry about how he feels or the company’s situation if I decide to leave?

In essence, I’ve never been emotionally invested in any of my jobs. They’ve simply been a means to cover basic necessities like food and shelter. While I enjoy my current travel writing position, I refuse to sacrifice my health or personal balance for it. I only commit the minimum time required. Others, however, have a different outlook.

Recently, I reconnected with two friends who have spent the last decade in highly demanding jobs, not just in terms of workload but emotionally taxing roles. One is a social worker dealing with people deemed “lost causes,” and the other works for an NGO’s emergency team, facing situations involving death, starvation, and crises, often with limited resources.

Both women, single and in their mid-thirties to mid-forties, chose these roles out of a strong commitment to their causes. Despite the extensive work and emotional toll, they earn very little. This has led to both of them experiencing severe depression over the past few years. The older one hasn’t married or had children, and the younger one is also single and unsettled. While their dedication is admirable, they can’t help many people if they are struggling themselves. If their jobs make them miserable, why not find something that brings them happiness?

I was in a miserable job once, too. I couldn’t stand my colleagues who made my life difficult, so I limited my interactions to basic greetings. I stayed because I needed a stable work history to purchase a home. Once I achieved that and received my bonus, I quit. My goal helped me endure the tough days because I knew the reward would be worth it.

My friends aim to make the world a better place, but I’m unsure they are achieving that by staying in jobs that depress them. There are various ways to help others, and it’s essential to find one that doesn’t drain you. Some people can cope with death and difficult situations, like doctors or funeral home workers, but not everyone is cut out for it. I suggested they change jobs, but they believe, “If I don’t do it, who will?” I disagree. If they step down, someone better prepared emotionally will take on the role and possibly do a better job.

While these two friends are extreme cases, many people overcommit to their jobs without receiving adequate returns. My mom and sister, for instance, bring work home without extra pay. Many friends are too scared to ask for raises. One friend went on a month-long business trip, enticed by a promised bonus, only for his boss to fabricate a reason not to pay him. Despite this, he continues working there.

I choose to live my life for myself and my loved ones, not for my job. My happiness comes first, and if my job doesn’t meet my expectations, I’m not afraid to leave and find something better.

WHAT ABOUT YOU? HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE TO YOUR JOB?