17 answers
Robiah Thabit
Process Engineer
13
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Asked
4315 views
What would you do for a living if money wasn't a factor?
I have been thinking about this a lot lately.
So much of our career choices are shaped by survival, not passion.
We all have that childhood dream to help the needy and now, somehow, most of us are the needy.
But if money wasn’t a factor, no pressure, no bills, no expectations. What would we really choose?
Would we still do what we do now? Or would we create, teach, build, explore, heal, write, or help in ways we have buried for years?
I’m genuinely curious.
What would you do for a living if money didn’t matter?
17 answers
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I have found a joy for public speaking and for helping people. I recently gave a keynote to over 1400 people and the energy in the room was beyond electric.
If money wasn’t a factor, I’d definitely travel and speak at conference for a living. Experiencing new places, cultures and cuisine while aiming to make the world a better place one conversation at a time.
If money wasn’t a factor, I’d definitely travel and speak at conference for a living. Experiencing new places, cultures and cuisine while aiming to make the world a better place one conversation at a time.
That sounds incredible, Jerome. There’s something so powerful about using your voice to uplift others and doing it while seeing the world? That’s a dream. I also dream of experiencing new places, cultures, and cuisines, though maybe without having to pack a bag every time.
Robiah Thabit
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1205
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Robiah,
I believe that many of us have silently asked ourselves the same question at times when life seems more about getting by than really living. This question really gets to the heart of things. You're absolutely correct; for many people, choosing a career becomes more about maintaining one's standard of living than pursuing one's interests. Also, that change can be difficult, particularly when you recognize how far you've come from what motivated you.
If money didn't play a role? To be honest, I believe that more of us would lean toward the things that bring us fulfillment. In addition to opening community centers and writing the books we've been dreaming about, we would also teach children in a way that makes learning fun and heal people in ways that aren't hurried or controlled. Some people would dedicate their days to creating beautiful things, whether they were in the form of relationships, art, or architecture. Others might explore the world, ideas, or even our own thoughts.
We can still take baby steps toward those buried passions even if we are unable to completely give up our practical duties, as this type of questioning serves as a reminder. Volunteering, blogging, returning to school, mentoring someone, or simply finding time for something worthwhile on the side could be the answer. We all deserve a little more purpose in our daily lives, though, even when money is an issue.
I'm glad you asked such a genuine question. It's an interesting question that deserves repeated thought.
Best wishes!
I believe that many of us have silently asked ourselves the same question at times when life seems more about getting by than really living. This question really gets to the heart of things. You're absolutely correct; for many people, choosing a career becomes more about maintaining one's standard of living than pursuing one's interests. Also, that change can be difficult, particularly when you recognize how far you've come from what motivated you.
If money didn't play a role? To be honest, I believe that more of us would lean toward the things that bring us fulfillment. In addition to opening community centers and writing the books we've been dreaming about, we would also teach children in a way that makes learning fun and heal people in ways that aren't hurried or controlled. Some people would dedicate their days to creating beautiful things, whether they were in the form of relationships, art, or architecture. Others might explore the world, ideas, or even our own thoughts.
We can still take baby steps toward those buried passions even if we are unable to completely give up our practical duties, as this type of questioning serves as a reminder. Volunteering, blogging, returning to school, mentoring someone, or simply finding time for something worthwhile on the side could be the answer. We all deserve a little more purpose in our daily lives, though, even when money is an issue.
I'm glad you asked such a genuine question. It's an interesting question that deserves repeated thought.
Best wishes!
Thank you, Chinyere. The tension between survival and purpose is what many carry silently. It’s also reassuring to hear that taking small steps toward what we care about still counts. Even when life is full of practical demands.
Robiah Thabit
Absolutely, Robiah. Every small step is part of the journey, even when we’re balancing a lot. You’re not alone in that tension.
Chinyere Okafor
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1831
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
If money, and, in my case, health, were not a factor, I'd be in the great outdoors! As a youngster, I wanted to be a hermit, living off the land. For real!
As I got older, this took a different form. So now, I think I'd like to be a campground host - someone who lives at a park, rent free, in exchange for volunteering. They share their love for the park with other campers, their knowledge of the park and surrounding areas (where to go antiquing, etc), and help them with unexpected emergencies - broken tent poles, or, whatever!
great question!
As I got older, this took a different form. So now, I think I'd like to be a campground host - someone who lives at a park, rent free, in exchange for volunteering. They share their love for the park with other campers, their knowledge of the park and surrounding areas (where to go antiquing, etc), and help them with unexpected emergencies - broken tent poles, or, whatever!
great question!
Hi Kim,
I love how your childhood dream grew into something still connected to nature and service. Being a campground host sounds peaceful and purposeful connecting with people and helping them feel at home outdoors. Thank you for sharing that. It really made me smile.
Robiah Thabit
Clara Onyegbule
In-house Counsel
6
Answers
Saint Albans, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Clara’s Answer
Brilliant question Robiah! I’d keep practicing law, but I’d do it almost entirely pro bono; partnering with NGOs to help girls from disadvantaged backgrounds break into technology through advocacy, mentorship, and policy work.
Aulani McGee
21
Answers
Updated
Aulani’s Answer
Hello Robiah,
If money wasn’t a factor in this life, what would I do? Immediately there are two things that come to my mind that I’ve always wanted to do, travel and support communities.
First, I have always found interest in traveling the world. There’s just so much hidden and it makes me curious, and by traveling, I would be exposed to diverse ways of living and thinking. Exploring the world for all that it has to offer is truly what I would like to do, as a well as embracing earths nature. Second, I have always found genuine delight and pleasure in being of help in any way that I can for others. This is something that I discovered about myself at a very young age. I would like to take the time to contribute to society ensuring a safe, helping, and welcoming environment, potentially making a positive impact. I frequently ponder about the human experience and nature. For instance, in the human experience there are periods where one feels isolated and this is due to a variety of factors. Whether one is spending time alone for an extended period of time or facing a difficult or challenging circumstance. In result, this can and has had a negative influence to the emotional and mental state of mind, as well as the physical well-being of individuals. Alongside this lies the human nature where there are periods of desiring to be social and make meaningful connections, which is why I would want to help in keeping the social aspect of bonding and connection of humans alive.
This is a wonderful and very thoughtful question you have asked!
If money wasn’t a factor in this life, what would I do? Immediately there are two things that come to my mind that I’ve always wanted to do, travel and support communities.
First, I have always found interest in traveling the world. There’s just so much hidden and it makes me curious, and by traveling, I would be exposed to diverse ways of living and thinking. Exploring the world for all that it has to offer is truly what I would like to do, as a well as embracing earths nature. Second, I have always found genuine delight and pleasure in being of help in any way that I can for others. This is something that I discovered about myself at a very young age. I would like to take the time to contribute to society ensuring a safe, helping, and welcoming environment, potentially making a positive impact. I frequently ponder about the human experience and nature. For instance, in the human experience there are periods where one feels isolated and this is due to a variety of factors. Whether one is spending time alone for an extended period of time or facing a difficult or challenging circumstance. In result, this can and has had a negative influence to the emotional and mental state of mind, as well as the physical well-being of individuals. Alongside this lies the human nature where there are periods of desiring to be social and make meaningful connections, which is why I would want to help in keeping the social aspect of bonding and connection of humans alive.
This is a wonderful and very thoughtful question you have asked!
Thank you, Aulani. One thing I have found common with most people answer is that, they want to travel the world and also render help. It significantly show that we have a good purpose towards life and that humanity still prevails in this harsh world.
Thank you again for sharing.
Robiah Thabit
Yes absolutely, very well said. As I was answering your question I realized the true power money holds in our every days lives. In our decision making, the way we think, behave, and live. It has added this limitation to human beings and the good purposes in life and humanity are suddenly forgotten. Thank you for your question, I was happy to share.
Aulani McGee
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hello Robiah, that’s a really good question. If money weren’t a factor for me, I think I’d dive fully into creative and healing work. Maybe I’d spend my days writing stories that help people feel seen and understood, or crafting music that brings comfort and joy. I’d also love to teach, sharing knowledge and inspiring curiosity in others feels so meaningful. And maybe some hands-on healing work too, like mindfulness coaching or holistic wellness, because helping people reconnect with themselves sounds incredibly fulfilling.
Autymn Harris
Culture & Community Program Manager
23
Answers
Wake Forest
Updated
Autymn’s Answer
If money wasn’t a factor, I would be the director of a shelter for the unhoused. I’ve always believed in creating spaces where people feel seen, safe, and supported. I’d want to lead with both compassion and structure, making sure people not only have a place to rest but also access to services that help them rebuild. That kind of work fills me up. It is purposeful, people-centered, and rooted in dignity.
Hello Autymn,
Your answer really moved me. Creating spaces where people feel seen and safe is such a powerful mission. The mix of compassion and structure you mentioned is something I deeply admire. Thank you for sharing your heart.
Robiah Thabit
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Robiah,
This a very interesting question, in terms of the ideas of what makes us happy versus what pays the bills. I'm not sure if you are contemplating any of your life decisions or if you are just broadly curious.
In terms of what I think, it would be to follow your dreams or what you desire in life. We only have one life to live and it is important to value happiness alongside the ability to prosper in the world we live in.
For me, I never considered money when it came to what I wanted to do in life. I was always inspired by other people and from young I always wanted to make a difference in people's lives. When I was kid, I wanted to be a professional soccer player and play at the highest level possible. This was not about money but about a passion that I had and it is unfortunate that I was not able to accomplish this feat. I realized in high school that I was not going to be able to make it as a professional soccer player so I considered other options like being a therapist, working in sociology, being a counselor and working in social work. This year, I finally decided to pursue my associates degree in Social Work and I'm hopeful that I will be able to attend Texas State next year. Social Work in the United States is a very weird career because the pay can range from $43,000 to $114,000 depending on the degrees, experience and specific job you get. I would definitely pick a different career if it was strictly based on the guaranteed money I would get. I have taken many social work classes and I have felt motivated to get a job in this field because I want to impact people and give back to my community.
If it was not about the money I would pursue being a professional soccer player and a career in Social Work again in a different life. It is important to be happy with yourself and the decisions you make in life. I don't regret pursuing both because I had a passion for both and this is the way I view my life. I would rather be happy struggling, than be unhappy while prospering in life.
If this relates to decisions you are making in life, I would say to follow your passions and try find balance the best way possible. I wish you the best for your future and I am hopeful that you take value in what I say. Thank you!
This a very interesting question, in terms of the ideas of what makes us happy versus what pays the bills. I'm not sure if you are contemplating any of your life decisions or if you are just broadly curious.
In terms of what I think, it would be to follow your dreams or what you desire in life. We only have one life to live and it is important to value happiness alongside the ability to prosper in the world we live in.
For me, I never considered money when it came to what I wanted to do in life. I was always inspired by other people and from young I always wanted to make a difference in people's lives. When I was kid, I wanted to be a professional soccer player and play at the highest level possible. This was not about money but about a passion that I had and it is unfortunate that I was not able to accomplish this feat. I realized in high school that I was not going to be able to make it as a professional soccer player so I considered other options like being a therapist, working in sociology, being a counselor and working in social work. This year, I finally decided to pursue my associates degree in Social Work and I'm hopeful that I will be able to attend Texas State next year. Social Work in the United States is a very weird career because the pay can range from $43,000 to $114,000 depending on the degrees, experience and specific job you get. I would definitely pick a different career if it was strictly based on the guaranteed money I would get. I have taken many social work classes and I have felt motivated to get a job in this field because I want to impact people and give back to my community.
If it was not about the money I would pursue being a professional soccer player and a career in Social Work again in a different life. It is important to be happy with yourself and the decisions you make in life. I don't regret pursuing both because I had a passion for both and this is the way I view my life. I would rather be happy struggling, than be unhappy while prospering in life.
If this relates to decisions you are making in life, I would say to follow your passions and try find balance the best way possible. I wish you the best for your future and I am hopeful that you take value in what I say. Thank you!
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Robiah,
Basically, the same as now. I earn nothing, I volunteer, and I do not complain either. Helping people is more important than money, especially when they're in trouble. When my family started suffering from familial hypercholesterolemia type IV, I was determined to help. I changed my career path from astronomy to biochemistry.
This decision was influenced by personal experiences, like my uncle passing away at 38 in 1974. In 1976, Professor Masters, my uncle's former boss, began teaching biochemistry at my new university. Inspired by Dr. Parvo Airola's book on nutrition, "Are You Confused?", I decided to focus on this field.
I did not think it was right to withhold health information for requisite fees, or money. Get the quality of life up for people. Do "train the trainer" health behavior modification on children. More to come soon.
Basically, the same as now. I earn nothing, I volunteer, and I do not complain either. Helping people is more important than money, especially when they're in trouble. When my family started suffering from familial hypercholesterolemia type IV, I was determined to help. I changed my career path from astronomy to biochemistry.
This decision was influenced by personal experiences, like my uncle passing away at 38 in 1974. In 1976, Professor Masters, my uncle's former boss, began teaching biochemistry at my new university. Inspired by Dr. Parvo Airola's book on nutrition, "Are You Confused?", I decided to focus on this field.
I did not think it was right to withhold health information for requisite fees, or money. Get the quality of life up for people. Do "train the trainer" health behavior modification on children. More to come soon.
Thank you, James.
Your story is deeply personal and moving. I appreciate you sharing this.
Robiah Thabit
Oh yes Robiah, the genetics were cruel, there one day, dead the next!
James Constantine Frangos
Sara Rusheidat
Intern
18
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Sara’s Answer
I wish I could just help people via volunteering! I am very fortune to be in the situation I am now through hard work and staying in school. For some people, other hardships came into their life, and they are struggling. I enjoy volunteering with programs that assist people with financial hardships. I also love teaching people and helping them reach their goals that they tell me that they would like to achieve in the near future.
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Robiah, what a fun question. Also, an important one. We spend so much of our time working, stressing about work or work-related issues, and even complaining about work! Sometimes we forget the reason why we do what we do and our initial interest. Having a passion and the ability to follow it is always a privilege. I have also learned that sometimes what we think is going to work out and be wonderful, in reality falls short. I pursued a clinical counseling and art therapy degree, but it took me a long time to get here. I also did not realize how challenging the work would be, though I still find it mostly satisfying. When I have a moment to daydream, I see myself being an artist and working independently. I see much more travel and freedom within my daily schedule. I would also love to work with animals. Other dreams include archeology and art conservation degrees. Perhaps photography- taking street portraits and working for National Geographic. I don't necessarily see myself working in my current profession. And then again sometimes I do! But I have more flexibility to determine my capacity to see clients for work/life balance. I also love the idea of being outdoors. I think dreaming is great; it gives us insight into our true desires. I also believe there is a grain of salt to this kind of thinking- especially if you are a grass is always greener type of person (and I am). Sometimes we want what we do not or cannot have but in reality, there is no perfect circumstance. I also think we should let such dreams guide us in our decisions whenever possible. Look for common threads and start to add aspects into your life. For instance, I can make art now, spend more time outside on the weekends, get an eco-therapy certificate, and volunteer at a gallery. Careers change over time- sometimes morphing into completely new paths. This is also the joy of being alive for such a long time (hopefully)- there is room for more than one job, career, and daydream. Most useful to consider is what drives you and holds your attention. I might think I want to be an artist full time, but it could be boring and lonely. To be honest I have a short attention span and am not prolific with my creative projects. See where I'm going with this? The people I have met who are most content have let their lives unfold naturally without pushing themselves to conform to pressure or societal expectations. They were open to taking risks, failing, and learning about themselves (personal growth work). Cheers to you on your own journey!
Thank you, Annah. Your response says a lot about the way you view life, and I love it. It’s thoughtful, grounded, and honest.
I think many of us struggle with accepting the gap between what we imagine and what reality brings.
Thank you again for sharing, I really appreciate how open and real your response is.
Robiah Thabit
So glad you found it helpful! I have learned from many missteps along the way. I am also very interested in how people make their choices, particularly career related. There's a lot of myths out there about what will bring happiness. But the answers will always come from inside you.
Annah Edmonds
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1092
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Robiah,
If money was not an issue because everyone would earn the same amount of money for their work, I'd happily work what I work now. But I might also choose to work with animals in some capacity - animal rescue, dog training, wildlife rehabilitation, something like that.
If money was not an issue because there was a ton of it and I didn't have to work I would still like the options above but I would probably also want to travel a lot and spend time learning new stuff, sciency stuff, Japanese, coding, graphic design.
So many options, so little time.....
KP
If money was not an issue because everyone would earn the same amount of money for their work, I'd happily work what I work now. But I might also choose to work with animals in some capacity - animal rescue, dog training, wildlife rehabilitation, something like that.
If money was not an issue because there was a ton of it and I didn't have to work I would still like the options above but I would probably also want to travel a lot and spend time learning new stuff, sciency stuff, Japanese, coding, graphic design.
So many options, so little time.....
KP
Hello Karin, thank you for sharing this.
Working with animals, learning Japanese, coding, design… that's a solid list.
If time wasn’t so tight, imagine how many things we’d all try.
Robiah Thabit
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Robiah,
This is an amazing question that I think not enough people think about. Thank you for asking and approaching your curiosity in this way. I am very fortunate enough to say that I have turned my passion's into my professions and have not had to compromise too much. I my bachelors and masters in industrial design. I currently am employed within fields of adaptive design, woodworking, and skateboarding. I have always been a hands on creative, I have always skateboarded, and I have always wanted to help people. During my studies, I knew that I wanted to design for marginalized audiences. Once I graduated, I volunteered at a non-profit for 6 months and they eventually began employing me. I also teach woodworking and skateboarding lessons to people of all ages. I love teaching people, which is surprising to me because I struggled a lot throughout my schooling when I was young. I am extremely grateful to be able to give back at this capacity.
During high school I had no idea what I wanted to do. As time went on, I found ways to get money from the things that I love, because I knew I would not enjoy spending my time doing something I do not love, even if it was for more money. I am part time for all three jobs, so I do have to compromise with the convenience of a constant schedule, but also have the flexibility of essentially choosing my own hours. Regardless, I think everyone should do what they are most passionate about. It would better themselves as well as society as a whole.
Thank you and I hope this helps!
This is an amazing question that I think not enough people think about. Thank you for asking and approaching your curiosity in this way. I am very fortunate enough to say that I have turned my passion's into my professions and have not had to compromise too much. I my bachelors and masters in industrial design. I currently am employed within fields of adaptive design, woodworking, and skateboarding. I have always been a hands on creative, I have always skateboarded, and I have always wanted to help people. During my studies, I knew that I wanted to design for marginalized audiences. Once I graduated, I volunteered at a non-profit for 6 months and they eventually began employing me. I also teach woodworking and skateboarding lessons to people of all ages. I love teaching people, which is surprising to me because I struggled a lot throughout my schooling when I was young. I am extremely grateful to be able to give back at this capacity.
During high school I had no idea what I wanted to do. As time went on, I found ways to get money from the things that I love, because I knew I would not enjoy spending my time doing something I do not love, even if it was for more money. I am part time for all three jobs, so I do have to compromise with the convenience of a constant schedule, but also have the flexibility of essentially choosing my own hours. Regardless, I think everyone should do what they are most passionate about. It would better themselves as well as society as a whole.
Thank you and I hope this helps!
Hello Phill, thank you so much for this deeply personal and inspiring response.
It’s rare to meet someone who has found a way to blend their passions with their profession so seamlessly and even more rare to see someone do it with such intention and purpose.
And honestly, the world needs more people designing for marginalized communities, more patient teachers, more hands-on creatives who see dignity in craftsmanship and building things that matter.
Thanks again for sharing your journey. It really adds depth to the question I posed.
Robiah Thabit
Larry Siegel
Government Liaison, Non-profit fundraising, Non-profit operation
45
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Jerome -- I thought to answer your question with my own background, and in thinking about that, I arrived at the point that money shouldn't be the objective of a job choice. Many, if now most of us, made or make our job choices based on what we feel we are good at or wish to be good at.
For myself, my first job inclination was to enter into public service. I wasn't thinking about the financial reward of the job, but of the job itself. Much later, when I retired, I spent 10 years operating a small non-profit. That was the most rewarding job of my life and it paid zero.
It is not always the case, but in many circumstances the pay becomes attractive as you gain experience and move up the career ladder. It a way, this financial compensation is a gift for doing well at something you wanted to do in the first place.
I don't know how helpful this response is to you, but I feel confident in the point that your first instinct should be to look for the job you want to do, rather than a job that pays well.
For myself, my first job inclination was to enter into public service. I wasn't thinking about the financial reward of the job, but of the job itself. Much later, when I retired, I spent 10 years operating a small non-profit. That was the most rewarding job of my life and it paid zero.
It is not always the case, but in many circumstances the pay becomes attractive as you gain experience and move up the career ladder. It a way, this financial compensation is a gift for doing well at something you wanted to do in the first place.
I don't know how helpful this response is to you, but I feel confident in the point that your first instinct should be to look for the job you want to do, rather than a job that pays well.
Carey Hutchison
Stay at home mother, Philosophy Undergrad Senior, Freelance Consultant- the entire process from Client Acquisition (sometimes from scratch) to creating together a running business/website.
3
Answers
Lincoln, Nebraska
Updated
Carey’s Answer
That's a great thing to think about. It will teach you a lot about yourself.
I was lucky to be exposed to "rich people" but only because it taught me that they are just as miserable, sometimes more, than the majority of people are. They can have any material thing they want, but from what I saw, money did not buy happiness, or caring friends, or real joy, or genuine wisdom - you also can't purchase the desire to savor moments, the learning that caring and helping people are actually helpful things for YOU to be doing, that love is a magical thing.
It isn't that we don't need some sort of money to get by, or perhaps more than that if we're lucky.
Money is what gets us things, and we need some things. But if you want to "have it all" meaning money and things you can buy with it, everyone eventually seems to realize some things can't be bought that way.
Moral of the story: Ideally, get a job you enjoy, or care about, that also pays the bills.
Find out what job you would love
I was lucky to be exposed to "rich people" but only because it taught me that they are just as miserable, sometimes more, than the majority of people are. They can have any material thing they want, but from what I saw, money did not buy happiness, or caring friends, or real joy, or genuine wisdom - you also can't purchase the desire to savor moments, the learning that caring and helping people are actually helpful things for YOU to be doing, that love is a magical thing.
It isn't that we don't need some sort of money to get by, or perhaps more than that if we're lucky.
Money is what gets us things, and we need some things. But if you want to "have it all" meaning money and things you can buy with it, everyone eventually seems to realize some things can't be bought that way.
Moral of the story: Ideally, get a job you enjoy, or care about, that also pays the bills.
Carey recommends the following next steps:
Greg Fazekas
Technical Writer
15
Answers
Pécs, Hungary
Updated
Greg’s Answer
What an insight Robiah!
If money wasn't a factor, I'd still do what I do now. Just with a lot less pressure. :D
Work isn't just about the survival, it ideally needs to be something that you'd do even without the promise of a paycheck. Yes, it's a big component, and sometimes we do things we don't want to because we have to. But even then, I think it's a good mindset to think of how that situation can build towards something you'd do even if you didn't have to.
Work is essential to a balanced life, because most people don't do well idling. It keeps you sharp, it keeps you engaged, it keeps you happy.
If you're in a position where you do more things you have to than what you want to, remember that it builds towards changing that balance. Find more things that bring you joy, and see if they can help you get there faster. And once you're there, keep doing things just because you want to.
If money wasn't a factor, I'd still do what I do now. Just with a lot less pressure. :D
Work isn't just about the survival, it ideally needs to be something that you'd do even without the promise of a paycheck. Yes, it's a big component, and sometimes we do things we don't want to because we have to. But even then, I think it's a good mindset to think of how that situation can build towards something you'd do even if you didn't have to.
Work is essential to a balanced life, because most people don't do well idling. It keeps you sharp, it keeps you engaged, it keeps you happy.
If you're in a position where you do more things you have to than what you want to, remember that it builds towards changing that balance. Find more things that bring you joy, and see if they can help you get there faster. And once you're there, keep doing things just because you want to.
Thank you, Greg.
Your answer feels like a deep exhale. I admire that you’ve built a life where what you do now would still be your choice even without the pressure of money. That’s a kind of alignment many of us are still working towards. I agree that work, when meaningful, gives rhythm to life. Thank you for sharing this.
Robiah Thabit
Esther Venmans
Senior Quality director
7
Answers
Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
Updated
Esther’s Answer
When we’re young, we often think that a job has to be born out of passion to be enjoyable—like artists, teachers, doctors… clear stories. But you can also enjoy work that others don’t immediately understand.
When I explain to my kids that I spend all day in meetings, helping people do their jobs, improving processes to make things more efficient, resolving misunderstandings between departments… they look at me oddly, because they can’t really imagine what that means. But I truly love my job—leading my team, optimizing broken systems, solving customer issues—because I can feel proud when I’ve helped someone.
Some people then ask, “But what will your contribution be over the next 100 years?” Our company plays its part in healthcare—without companies that supply chemical components, no medications could be produced. Sure, I may not be a doctor helping patients directly, but without tools, medicine, or even hospital supplies, a doctor today would barely be able to do anything.
The cleaning staff or catering team in a hospital—everyone in the network contributes to the success of the bigger picture. Work itself can be fulfilling, because of the interaction with others and the shared effort to improve something: a patient, a process, a result you can be proud of.
If I weren’t working, I’d still need something that lets me create, improve, take action… something to be proud off, and that, in essence, is working
😉
When I explain to my kids that I spend all day in meetings, helping people do their jobs, improving processes to make things more efficient, resolving misunderstandings between departments… they look at me oddly, because they can’t really imagine what that means. But I truly love my job—leading my team, optimizing broken systems, solving customer issues—because I can feel proud when I’ve helped someone.
Some people then ask, “But what will your contribution be over the next 100 years?” Our company plays its part in healthcare—without companies that supply chemical components, no medications could be produced. Sure, I may not be a doctor helping patients directly, but without tools, medicine, or even hospital supplies, a doctor today would barely be able to do anything.
The cleaning staff or catering team in a hospital—everyone in the network contributes to the success of the bigger picture. Work itself can be fulfilling, because of the interaction with others and the shared effort to improve something: a patient, a process, a result you can be proud of.
If I weren’t working, I’d still need something that lets me create, improve, take action… something to be proud off, and that, in essence, is working
😉
Thank you, Esther.
You have shared something really important.Work doesn’t always have to look exciting to matter.
Helping people, fixing problems, and making things better can be just as fulfilling. Even if money wasn’t a factor, the pride in contribution would still be worth holding onto. Thank you for sharing this.
Robiah Thabit
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