Some people might say that their job is proof of their success, allowing them to brag about it when they meet with friends or family. Others may believe that it allows them to express their true selves by creating ideas, dreams, and imagination, as well as meeting their expectations. Perhaps there are people who believe that job is only a job. Please don’t be too serious. It is simply a means to get money to pay bills and cover living expenses. That’s it!
For me, a job is much more than just that. In my previous professional career, I believed that I needed to be able to show people that I was a successful person by having a good job, a good salary, knowing a lot of people or being recognized by important people, traveling to many places, staying at luxurious hotels, and so on. I believe it is normal for everyone. Also, my family was extremely poor. So, getting money to cover the cost of my family’s living expenses was critical.
But, as time passed, my perspective changed. One day, I realized I needed something more. Those things I had craved in the past no longer held much significance for me. Why wasn’t I satisfied with my job? Why did I feel as if there was a hole I couldn’t close? Why was I so agitated?
When I resigned from a large corporation, almost all of my colleagues asked me, “Why did you resign when many people are dying to get a job in this company?” I couldn’t answer the question. When my colleagues said, “We had everything here,” I was like, really? So why wasn’t I happy?
It took me a long time to figure out what it was or what I was looking for, but I eventually realized that I wanted to do something bigger than myself. I wanted to give something to others. I wanted to do something beneficial for others. This must have been part one, because I went through another transformation after that. After working for more than 25 years, I believe it is reasonable to reflect on what I want from a job. Or, what I have to do through my job. Or, how can I live a more meaningful life by doing my job?
I recently discovered that for me, a job is a special assignment from God. He’s the Big Boss! ???? I believe I was given a specific job for a reason. It is a kind of special task from the Big Boss. For me, a job is more than just a source of income or recognition. Based on my previous experience, I’ve learned that the jobs that are provided to me lead me down a specific path. It leads me in a direction that allows me to grow both professionally and spiritually. When I tried to reflect on my professional journey, I realized that the ups and downs helped me become not only a more experienced or skilled professional, but also a better person.
That is why I am not particularly disappointed if I am not accepted for one job, despite the fact that I did my best during the recruitment process. Or, I don’t complain if I get a job that, in my opinion, isn’t right for me, or one that I try to avoid. There must be a reason, even if I don’t like it or am hesitant to do it at first.
I used to desperately avoid one job. I said “No” to the offers because I was concerned. However, all doors were closed for me. Not a single window opened for me. I felt as if I was always directed to that job. The offer kept coming, friends kept telling me to take the job, and I kept avoiding it. Finally, I gave up because I realized I couldn’t go anywhere else. I accepted the job. You know what? I had an excellent work experience! I am not saying there were no challenges. There were several! However, the boss, colleagues, friendship, and togetherness triumphed over all challenges. Finally, we achieved great success!
Meanwhile, I had a dream of working for one company. My mind was filled with beautiful things and expectations for myself as a member of the company’s staff. I worked hard to get accepted into the company, and I succeeded. My happiness turned sour when I realized it wasn’t the right place for me. I was unhappy because I was unable to create ideas, brainstorm, and so on. I finally resigned from the company. That is also why, when I am about to accept a job offer, I will ask the Big Boss, “Do You want me to take this path?” or, “Is there a specific task You want me to complete?” Or, “Do You want me to grow or learn something new there?” Maybe I don’t like His answers, but I still follow Him anyway. According to my experience, there is always a reason why I was sent to a specific place. He knows what’s best for me, for sure.
