Get a REAL job?

Often times creative people who do freelance work hear these phrases coming from all angles. But what exactly is a real job and what are we made to believe are real jobs in this part of the world. In the society, there exists a common perception regarding what constitutes a "real job." This perception is often influenced by cultural norms, societal expectations, and historical context. In this article, we delve into the common ideas surrounding real jobs, the factors that shape this perception, and the implications it has on individuals and society as a whole.

Societal norms and expectations play a significant role in shaping our understanding of employment. These influences can be seen in how certain jobs are deemed more prestigious or valid than others, creating a hierarchy of value within the labor market. Here are some keyways in which societal norms and expectations impact our perception of employment:

Cultural Conditioning: Society often ingrains certain beliefs about the ideal career path from an early age. Parents, teachers, and peers emphasize the importance of traditional occupations like doctors, lawyers, or engineers, leading to the internalization of these societal expectations. As a result, individuals may feel pressured to pursue these "respected" professions, even if they do not align with their passions or interests.

Education System: The education system is designed to prepare individuals for the job market, but it often reinforces societal norms and expectations. Certain subjects and disciplines are prioritized, while others are undervalued. This emphasis on specific fields can limit people's choices and perpetuate the notion that only certain jobs are worthwhile or legitimate.

Social Status and Perception: Society assigns varying levels of social status to different occupations. Careers that require higher levels of education or specialized skills are often viewed as more prestigious, leading to greater recognition and respect. On the other hand, jobs that are perceived as lower-skilled or blue-collar may face stigma or a lack of recognition, despite their essential contributions to society.

Financial Considerations: Societal norms often link financial success with certain professions. Jobs that offer high salaries and benefits are often seen as more desirable and "real," while lower-paying or unconventional jobs may be devalued. This emphasis on financial rewards can influence individuals' career choices and shape their understanding of what constitutes a "real" job.

Peer Pressure and Social Validation: The opinions and values of friends, family, and peers can heavily influence employment choices. People may feel pressured to conform to societal expectations or seek validation from others by pursuing conventional career paths. This pressure can limit individual exploration and creativity, as individuals may fear judgment or criticism for deviating from the norm.

In the article, we draw inspiration from Robert Kiyosaki's thought-provoking book, "Rich Dad Poor Dad." This influential book challenges traditional notions of success and critically examines the concept of real jobs. "Rich Dad Poor Dad" emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, investment, and thinking outside the box when it comes to building wealth and achieving financial independence.

Kiyosaki encourages readers to question the conventional definition of a real job, which often revolves around stability, prestige, and a steady paycheck. He argues that relying solely on traditional employment can limit one's financial potential and personal growth. Instead, Kiyosaki emphasizes the significance of financial education, taking calculated risks, and exploring alternative paths to success beyond the confines of a regular job.

Real Job??

The prevailing definition of real jobs often equates them with working for the state or pursuing white-collar careers. This perception stems from several factors, including stability, financial security, and social status. Real jobs are commonly associated with stability, as government positions and established corporate roles offer long-term employment with predictable outcomes. Additionally, such careers are seen as providing financial security due to higher salaries, benefits, and opportunities for advancement. Moreover, real jobs are often perceived as prestigious, as professions requiring specialized education and recognition from established institutions carry social status and respect. These reasons have contributed to the mindset that real jobs are synonymous with state employment and white-collar careers, reinforcing the conventional definition in society.

The Limitations of Traditional Jobs

Traditional jobs, while often associated with stability and security, also come with several drawbacks that are worth considering. Here are some key limitations of traditional jobs:

Limited Income Potential: Traditional jobs often have a salary ceiling determined by hierarchical structures and predefined pay scales. Advancement opportunities may be limited, resulting in slower income growth compared to alternative career paths like entrepreneurship or freelance work.

Lack of Control Over Time: Many traditional jobs require adhering to strict schedules and working fixed hours. This lack of flexibility can hinder work-life balance and limit the ability to pursue personal interests or spend quality time with loved ones.

Limited Avenues for Personal Growth and Creativity: In some traditional jobs, employees may find themselves carrying out repetitive tasks that offer limited room for personal growth and creativity. Strict adherence to set procedures and protocols can restrict innovation and stifle individual potential.

The definition of real jobs is expanding to include creative freelancers and non-traditional workers who make significant contributions to the economy and society. Freelance work offers numerous benefits, including flexibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to pursue one's passion. Many successful individuals have carved out unconventional careers, finding fulfillment without conforming to traditional job roles. These innovative professionals demonstrate that alternative paths can lead to personal and professional success while making meaningful contributions to society.

Redefining Success:

In a world that often equates success and financial prosperity with traditional jobs, it's essential to challenge this notion and encourage individuals to consider alternative paths that align with their passions and values.

Success means different things to different people. It's important to question societal norms and reflect on what success truly means to us individually. Challenge the conventional idea that a nine-to-five job is the only path to success, and encourage readers to explore alternative routes that align with their passions, interests, and unique skills.

In conclusion, it is essential to challenge societal expectations and redefine our understanding of real jobs. We should encourage readers to embrace their creativity, explore unconventional career paths, and prioritize personal fulfillment over societal norms. Success should not be limited to traditional jobs, but rather defined by individual passions and values. By reevaluating our definitions of success, we can empower ourselves to create a prosperous future that aligns with our true desires.