Whoever Says Work Should Be Fun Is Wrong

WORK IS SUPPOSED TO SUCK

 

“If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

You’ve definitely heard some variation of this piece of advice way too many times to remember. It’s a popular belief, sure, but it’s bullshit. Like Red Foreman up there, it’s called work for a reason, right? Show me a dictionary that defines work as fun. I’ll wait.

So what am I saying? Is work supposed to be boring? Well, yes and no. Let me elaborate.

“Work sucks, I know…”

The first thing that we all need to come to terms with is the fact that work is supposed to be hard. Not all the time, of course, but if it isn’t challenging, you’re probably just taking shortcuts and winging it. That or it’s too easy for you.

Second, what we do for a living should not just pay the bills, it should also bring us psychological satisfaction. Which is why so many of us choose the path less traveled and pursue our passions. We clearly want meaningful careers instead of just making a ton of money at a dull gig.

But just because you are doing what you love does not mean it’s going to be easy or something you look forward to every single day.
work-is-not-fun-red-foreman

No, on some days, you’ll be forcing yourself to get it done. That’s the price one has to pay for turning a passion or hobby into a career. For example, I have always wanted to be a writer, but I know how hard I have to push myself to write on some days. Struggles like these make me wonder why I didn’t choose a better paying field. Of course, that thought is easily forgotten on days when I’m driven to write. How fickle are us humans, huh?

Third, parts of the work you love can and are fun. The problem is when we only want those doses of fun.

Look, it’s called work for a reason and no job is perfect. Even the most enjoyable jobs get dull, annoying and stressful at times. And there’s nothing that can be done about it. It gets better when you accept this and wait for the tide to turn in your favor. As long as your career gives you a sense of engagement, purpose, and fulfillment, it’s right for you.

How does work make you feel? Let me know your views in the comments below.

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Life's better when you are aware of your surroundings.

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