The Myth of the Perfect Job

Many people in my personal network think I am crazy because I have always loved working. If you didn’t know better, you would think I found career bliss because I found the perfect job…which would be incorrect. The perfect job is a myth. No job is perfect, and no career path is without its challenges and setbacks. Even if you land your “dream job”, you'll likely find that it's not exactly what you imagined it to be.

While a lot of people tend to focus on more superficial elements of their job, I have found happiness in my work-life by focusing on what is truly important to me. I personally want a role where I:

1. Work as part of a great team and have a manager I respect

2. Am able to access my wider skillset and have variety in my day

3. Have the ability to make some type of impact in my company

4. Can have some level of autonomy

5. Have someone to learn from

Notice how I never mentioned compensation. Compensation is extremely important, and if I am not compensated fairly, then of course I would lose interest in my job, but that isn’t what makes me happy. It keeps me fed and enables a lifestyle I want. It removes a stressor from my life.?

In addition to having a strong sense of what I want in a role, there are other things that I find help improve any work environment I am a part of. They are:

1. Doing more of what I enjoy:?I find ways to increase time spent on tasks I enjoy (I love finding speedy ways to reduce tedious tasks so I can focus on intellectually nourishing tasks).

2. Build positive relationships:?Colleagues are your at work support network. Get to know each other, build strong working relationships and bonds with them.?

3. Finding Purpose:?How does your role contribute to the success of your company? Recognize it and be proud of it.

4. Take care of yourself:?Don’t let yourself get burned out! Even a job you love can become difficult to go to day to day if you are “over it”. Talk to your manager or colleagues about how to reduce burnout…or take a vacation.

5. Celebrate your successes:??Acknowledge your wins and while you’re at it, celebrate your colleagues’ successes too!

Your career is a journey, not a destination. Find ways to enjoy the ride, particularly when it gets bumpy. Unless you’re independently wealthy, you’re going to be working for a long time. Find a way to make your time better.?

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