She Strengthens

Rethinking the Value of Work

In today’s fast-paced job market, we often focus on developing the most “marketable” skills to succeed. However, this emphasis on specific skills can lead us to overlook the value of non-traditional work. It’s time to challenge our assumptions about what makes “good” and “bad” work.

The Myth of the College Degree

With 19.9 million students projected to attend American colleges and universities in fall 2018, it’s clear that having a degree is highly valued. But does it guarantee success? Not necessarily. There are many paths to a fulfilling career, and non-traditional work can be just as valuable.

Breaking Free from Traditional Expectations

A Reddit user recently shared their struggle to find meaningful work despite having a high school degree. They asked, “What other types of work are out there?” This question sparked a discussion about the importance of exploring alternative career paths.

Finding Your Way

If you’re not a people person or struggle with anxiety, there are still many options available. Research what you can do to find work that suits your needs and lifestyle. Any pre-existing skill set can be expanded upon to include things that make steady work a real possibility.

Non-Traditional Jobs That Pay

Here are some tips from experts and individuals who have found success in non-traditional work:

• Construction and Trade Jobs: Consider working in construction, where laborers, operators, and welders are in high demand. With hard work and dedication, you can move into management roles and earn up to $250k+.
• Lawn Maintenance and Seasonal Work: Offer your services as a lawn maintenance worker, or place ads to get work. You can earn a steady income by adapting to different seasons and tasks.
• Roofing and Construction: Learn numbers, practice excellent communication skills, and study certifications to succeed in roofing and construction. You can stand out against your peers and shine.
• Technical Support and IT: If you’re introverted and struggle with social anxiety, consider technical support or IT roles. With certifications and experience, you can earn up to 50k+ per year.
• Apprenticeships and Career Coaching: Join an apprenticeship or work with a career coach to build a skills inventory, resume, and personal development plan.
• Purchasing Positions and Skilled Trades: Try getting a purchasing position, which can be a resume builder and offer more money. You can also explore skilled trades like appliance repair, plumbing, and HVAC.

Conclusion

Non-traditional work is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it can be a viable path to a fulfilling career. By challenging our assumptions and exploring alternative options, we can find work that suits our needs and lifestyles. Remember, starting from the “bottom” means there’s only one way to go – up.