Finding My Way
I'll be the first to admit it: I’m not cut out for the 9-5 life. I was not made for this. I love blue-collar work, but somehow, I ended up as a white-collar girl sitting behind a desk for 10+ hours a day. I think that’s the case for many of us. We find ourselves in roles that don’t quite fit the vision we had for our lives. The rigidity, the routine, the relentless hours—they all seem to work against our natural inclinations. Yet, here we are, pushing through each day, proving that life may be tough, but we are tougher.
THE BLUE-COLLAR TO WHITE-COLLAR SHIFT
Growing up, I always imagined myself doing something hands-on, where I could see the results of my work at the end of the day. Instead, I’m staring at a screen for hours, juggling meetings, making constant calls, and sending emails. The irony is, I once had a blue-collar job that I loved, but life’s circumstances nudged me toward a remote job. I traded the satisfaction of a job I enjoyed for the flexibility of working remotely, which meant giving up the need to ask for time off just to see a doctor or having to drag myself to work when I’m sick because there’s no PTO left.
This shift has made it harder for me to enjoy the job. Nevertheless, I push through it and focus on what I can control. When I’m getting yelled at by a client, manager, or co-worker, I find joy in killing them with kindness. Embracing the positives, I focus on the aspects of my job that I can influence and take pride in how I handle the challenges thrown my way.
The Daily Grind
I know I’m not alone in this. Many of us struggle with the monotony, the lack of flexibility, and the feeling of being trapped in a cycle that leaves little room for creativity and spontaneity. It’s a struggle that takes a toll on our mental and physical well-being.
But here's the silver lining: this struggle makes us resilient. Each day we show up, we’re building endurance, sharpening our problem-solving skills, and proving to ourselves that we can thrive even in environments that don’t always align with our passions.
Coping with the Challenges
So, how do we cope? How do we find balance and fulfillment when our day jobs feel more like a grind than a calling? Here are a few strategies that have helped me along the way:
- Embrace Your Strengths: Recognize the unique skills and qualities you bring to your role. Even if the job isn’t your dream, you can still excel and find satisfaction in doing your best.
- Seek Out Opportunities for Growth: Look for ways to learn and grow within your current position. Whether it’s taking on a new project, seeking mentorship, or acquiring new skills, there are always ways to expand your horizons.
- Set Boundaries: It’s essential to set boundaries to protect your well-being. This might mean shutting off your work email after hours, taking regular breaks, or prioritizing your health and hobbies outside of work.
- Find Your Community: Connect with others who share your struggles and aspirations. Building a support network can provide encouragement, advice, and a sense of camaraderie.
- Plan For The Future: If you know the 9-5 isn’t where you want to be long-term, start planning your next move. Whether it’s a career change, starting a side hustle, or exploring new interests, having a plan can make the daily grind more bearable.
THE STRONG, RESILIENT YOU
Remember, life is tough, but so are you. Each day, you’re building a foundation for a future that aligns more closely with your dreams and aspirations. Keep pushing, keep growing, and never lose sight of the strong, resilient person you are.
