What Non-Career Jobs Teach Us About Life

I recently had a conversation with a teammate - a MIT graduate. He took a look at my resume and asked, “Why do you have all these jobs listed? A bartender? A cleaning lady? Seriously?”

His question sparked a deeper reflection.

Each role I've embraced—from late-night cleaning shifts to bartending and fitness instructing—has been a pivotal part of my journey, shaping the person I am today.

These positions aren’t just jobs; they’re milestones filled with invaluable lessons. As a cleaning lady, I confronted the isolation that comes with night shifts, challenging my ego in ways that aren’t often discussed. Let’s be honest: it’s not a glamorous job, but it taught me the importance of attention to detail and the profound satisfaction that comes from a job well done. If I can make a toilet sparkle, I know I can tackle any complex project that comes my way. Working as a hotel maid equipped me with skills to juggle multiple priorities, stay calm under pressure, and navigate interactions with very entitled individuals—skills essential in any high-ego (professional / work) environment.

My time as a fitness trainer deepened my understanding of motivation and human psychology. If I can inspire someone to break through their limits at 5.30 AM, I know I can motivate a team. And bartending? That experience was a masterclass in reading people and building rapport, whether I was chatting about life with a regular or managing the occasional encounter with someone having a (midlife) crisis.

We should actively encourage our teenagers to take on these jobs as part of their life journey. These roles instill a sense of responsibility and teach the value of hard work—insights that no classroom can provide. They prepare our young people for whatever comes next in their careers and lives.

To everyone navigating non-traditional paths: embrace your experiences. Every job adds to your skill set, equipping you with a unique perspective that can be an incredible asset in any career. It’s not about the title; it’s about the skills you acquire and the resilience you cultivate along the way.

So, the next time someone questions your resume, remember that every experience is a stepping stone. Let’s celebrate the value of every job, no matter how unconventional or low-status! After all, the real world thrives on a foundation of diverse experiences and the lessons we learn from them. Keep pushing forward; your journey is valid, and it truly matters.

And to my book-smart friend, I ask: while you excel in the classroom, do you have the street smarts to navigate the complexities of the real world? That’s where true wisdom lies.