I’ve been on the board for a while now and I’m observing that some of the differences are between those who are here for a job vs those who are here for a career. Or those who can draw a hard line between their career and everything else. I can get behind the whole “Work to live lifestyle vs live to work.” I agree with it, actually. But it doesn’t have to be one way or the other. And certainly one way isn’t more superior to the other.
Ideally, we are all hoping for a job that gives us the best of both worlds. A job where we are respected, valued, take pride in our work, collaborate with good teams and make a difference. But also a job where we can grow personally and financially, support ourselves and our families, build a better future. A job that balances work with life, so we can all be happy and healthy. I know my life is better when I have the best of both worlds.
Wanting a career isn’t a character flaw. I take exception to those on the board who want to patronize/judge/act somehow intellectually or emotionally more evolved than those who have invested part of themselves in to their work.
Yes, this board is anonymous. But it isn’t some random board with a bunch of Joe Shmoes living in their basement. It’s mostly people who work at the same firm as you. Just take a beat before you hit “Submit”.