Maybe my initial reaction was a bit harsh. I contribute my growing
pains to the fact that since 2006, with the exception of my holiday temp
job at The Gap, I have been lucky in terms of work...and spoiled. As a
Stagehand and Orientation Mentor I was able to make my own
schedule with varying hours from week to week. I enjoyed collaboration
as my coworkers and I teamed together to put on a show. I had the
opportunity of working with new people every shift as well as work with
those I have built strong relationships with. I was always active,
lively, and physically involved with my work as it kept me on my feet. I
didn't have to worry about a dress code or having to look sharp every
single day. I had both freedom and responsibilities. My work was
unconventional by North American standards (yanno, the whole
"nine-to-five" as they say) but if it wasn't for that type of
environment I don't think I could have held a job.
Though I
still can't wrap my head around the concept of working most of my time
away while life passes me by... at least that is how I see
it. We spend so much time labouring and so little time enjoying the
fruits of our labour. And though I still do not wish this to be my
future or how I spend the
rest of my life... I am enjoying going to work every day!
I have happily
arisen from bed each morning to get ready for the day ahead of me. I
show up with a smile and leave with a smile. I enjoy the company of who I
work with and I am enjoying the variety of projects that I have taken on from
day to day. I have also started helping students again which of course
fulfills a certain part of me.
I "suffered" briefly through the
transition from my ideal work environment to a less favourable one.
However, it really isn't that bad. The more I reflect the more I realize
the similarities my current work environment shares with my previous. I
work with a wonderfully diverse staff and student body. I
absolutely cherish my interactions with them as it enriches my
perception of the world. The projects I am involved in actually hold
importance and allow me to be a part of something bigger. I may be a bit
restricted when it comes to the hours I choose to work but I do still
get to choose my hours. Although I may not be as physically active as I
would like I am not tied to desk all day either.
Overall I am satisfied with my job and because of this it becomes easier to be there every day 7 hours a day.
I still don't want a desk job as a career. :)