A few years ago, before the Covid-19 pandemic struck and work-from-home options became widely available, I wrote this article, feeling particularly frustrated with my job.

It’s meant to be funny (hope it still is) but there’s a large grain of truth to it. 

Even for those who absolutely loved their work at the time, as I’m sure many do currently, I’m also sure there are many of you who often wondered then and currently, “What the hell am I doing here?” or “What’s the point of all this?” 

To all the hardworking, striving to be loyal, yet disgruntled nine-to-fivers (and those who have to work those SUPER-EARLY or graveyard shifts!), I DO understand, have been through it, and totally salute you.

Enjoy!            

1. You’re around a nicer, better-educated group of people. (Have you ever tried actual conversations with some folks on employed jobs? Sometimes it would be nice to discuss books or even politics (long considered a workplace no-no) than gossip or kids for a total of eight hours, or who doesn’t have kids and what’s wrong with them for a total of eight hours (I swear to God, this was an actual conversation I was subjected to).

2. You often get to CHOOSE who or with whom you wish to work. Being THROWN IN a group often requires extremely great acting (you know what I’m talking about).

3. Volunteer working conditions are ALWAYS more pleasant. (You can set your own time, custom design your workday, etc. And breaks can be taken! Many real jobs don’t give breaks; some won’t let you eat lunch! (True: One place I worked DID NOT). And many have prehistoric work equipment. Or none at all.

4. You’re allowed as much time as you need to develop a new skill. How many of you have just started a new job and weren’t TRAINED at all? Had to learn through trial and error, didn’t you? I know you did.

5. You actually are happy and eagerly looking forward to going there. (No further comment needed.)

6. You’re able to stay in a good mood because most people there aren’t pissed off at the volunteer worker.

7. If a mistake’s made, (unless it’s a colossal doozie, i.e., you deleted all the computer databases) no hissy fits occur. It’s chalked up to getting your feet wet, a learning experience.

8. You’re not a part of office politics or backstabbing. (That’s also why you can stay in a good mood.)

9. You can be yourself; let that REAL personality sparkle! (As a volunteer, people are more willing to work with your particular quirks; in employed jobs, it’s often the other way around. Your personality’s subjugated for the greater good. Doesn’t this just suck?)

10. You don’t get sick as often. Or FEEL sick, anyway. Or want to feel sick.

The ONE (that I can determine so far) reason that employment beats volunteering (unfortunately): Money (most of the time, it’s never enough, especially for some very important, essential occupations).