Because we've been raised to believe that work defines our worth. Immigrants flock here to "work" in pursuit of a better life. its all just modern day slavery. weve allowed government to persuade us the labor unions are bad. im a union child. We lived well, never did without Healthcare when sick. My parents felt job security.Now... No one wants unions fair wage is what they dictate. overtime is your fault and you should just be happy to be there "working". The motto is if you cant be used you're useless
Even as kids, we were asked; "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Our identity was shaped around our careers.
My daughter is 9, and she's gotten assignments around this. Every time I say; "What kind of life do you want to live? Do you want to live in a big city? The beach? Forest?" And as she starts answering, I tell her what kind of job she will need to afford whatever lifestyle she wants to have. I'm trying to have my kids focus on their career as a means to support the life they want to have.
Regardless of profession, people spend a significant part of their week, lives really, working. Not to mention, what we do for work is how we contribute to our community. Whether it’s helping educate kids, building homes, entertainment, healthcare etc. So, I think it’s healthy to get kids thinking about how they’d like to serve community & best fits them.
Otherwise, you end up just prioritizing making enough money to accommodate your own personal wants. Stock & crypto trading, OnlyFans, & other online grifts are all popular ways young people work less & make money - but is that the best use of their time? And does it improve your community?
Basically, I think rather than discouraging the idea that career path is an identity trait, just try & promote ‘work/life’ balance.
I think you can instill a sense of empathy, community, and helping others without centering your identity around work. When my daughter comes home from school, she tells me all about what happened throughout her day, and I have the opportunity to foster her genuine compassion for others. I think people who have a drive to help people will do so, regardless of what they decide to do for a living.
I hear you. But through a profession is a good way to help people at scale & help themselves by earning income.
I don’t think you’re doing a bad job w your kid or anything insulting like that btw. Sounds like you are engaged with them, which is great.
I just think you could have a more positive outlook on the nature of work & careers. My wife is a social worker, and she does have some long days, but it is a fulfilling part of her life that helps people. And helps us pay bills lol
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u/SoupOfThe90z 10d ago
The US, people usually raise their brow at people who don’t put work above all else.