career
What are you working for?
Recently I’ve been looking for a new job, and I’ve been thinking about what it is that really makes a job worthwhile.
For many people, money is probably the main reason for choosing a job. But I think that’s why people are so unhappy with work.
Let’s face it, satisfaction doesn’t come from your bank account, but from doing something that you love, in an environment that you love.
Google is a company most developers dream of working for. But when you ask yourself why, you can see that the pay actually has little to do with that desire.
They offer free lunch, a trendy work environment, freedom to explore new ideas, time to grow and learn, as well as the comprehensive benefits package you’d expect.
People want to work for Google primarily for the enjoyment of it, and for the working environment.
Employers are starting to wise up to this too, particularly within in web development.
So, if you’re looking for employment I really encourage you to have a good think about what’s most important to you at work… What’s more important to you, money or satisfaction?
Now don’t get me wrong, I know that my mortgage company wouldn’t appreciate a phone call explainining: “I can no longer pay my mortgage because I only earn £500 a month… But at least I love my job!”
Just a few thoughts that’ve been running through my head recently.
Tags: Discussion
2 comments for “What are you working for?”
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I have given a lot of thought to this as well. I have decided to stick to running my business because although it has a lot of downfalls I don’t want to give up the freedom and ability to take days off, leave early, or be available if my family needs me.
I myself work part-time as a maths teacher, and have fun with music and coding the rest of time. I don’t earn a lot of money but I’m rich with y free-time, I don’t have crasy deadlines and so on. To me life is sweeter this way.
note: thanks for your interesting CI screencasts!