She Strengthens

The Pressure to Conform: Unpacking the Myth of the “Real Job”

When my friend landed an office job in her field, her social media feeds were flooded with congratulations and praise. It was as if she had finally achieved the ultimate milestone in her career. But beneath the surface, I sensed a mix of emotions – nervousness, relief, and a hint of anxiety. She had finally made it out of the post-grad maze and into a job that society deemed impressive.

The Reality of the “Real Job” Myth

The truth is, many of us experience this pressure to conform to societal expectations in our 20s. We’re led to believe that finding a “real job” is the key to success and respectability. But what does that even mean? Is it simply a matter of having a steady salary, benefits, and a desk to call your own? Or is it about finding fulfillment, personal growth, and a sense of purpose?

The Problem with Praising the “Real Job”

When we shower people with praise for landing an office job, we reinforce the notion that this is the ultimate goal. We create a pressure to conform, not because it’s what they truly want, but because it’s what society expects. This can lead to people taking jobs that don’t bring them joy or satisfaction, simply because it looks good on paper.

The Value of Non-Traditional Paths

But what about those who don’t fit neatly into the box? The ones who are working through internships, going back to school, or pursuing alternative careers? Don’t they deserve recognition and respect too? When we elevate the traditional career path, we inadvertently push down others who are taking a different route.

Redefining What’s “Real”

A job is “real” when you work hard, draw value from it, and don’t look down on others who are doing the same. It’s about finding meaning and purpose, regardless of the industry or occupation. Sweeping floors, dealing with customers, and learning about yourself in the process – these are all “real” jobs that deserve respect.

Breaking Free from Societal Expectations

It’s time to break free from the pressure to conform. We should encourage people to find their own path, whether that’s in an office or not. No one should feel forced to take a job because of how it looks, rather than how it feels. Happiness and fulfillment are worth more than any amount of prestige.

My friend’s journey is a testament to this. After being laid off from her “real job,” she pursued her passion for cooking and is now working towards becoming a chef. To her, that’s the most “real” job she’s ever had. And that’s all that matters.