Are you having a career or a job?

“Choose a career, not just a job.” I can’t remember how many times I stressed this out during my first career talk 5 years ago. I was invited to share my experience as a Medical Transcriptionist with those freshies in my alma mater. The entire experience was such an honor and privilege, thank you, PUP!

So now, maybe you are asking; is there any difference? Of course, dear. Your career is something that you work for because you are passionate and devoted about – something that you don’t force yourself to go out of bed to do the work, while your job is something that you do for a living. See the fine line?

I remembered when I was in my senior year in college, I already know that I want to work in the medical industry and use my expertise, specifically in the hospital. So I applied for various Hospitals and medical facilities. The Law of attraction really works! I was hired in my dream hospital. By then, this idea of having a career or a job has been my guide whenever I consider having a new role.

Sometimes, people will tell us that we are too picky for a role, we are demanding, and the list is on! Sadly, I consider that as a toxic culture. Can we just respect someone else’s decision and simply support them? Either way, they will be the ones who will handle the work and stress after all and it’s not us. Let’s be considerate. Everyone has different struggles and desires; having a career or a job as a choice is not always easy for everyone. Some people may even say, “I don’t have a choice that’s why I choose this job.” That’s the reality because life is drastically unfair.

So, what’s the deal? For me, if your job is not your desired career, you can always have a choice. Having no choice is a myth. You can always choose to move forward. Just take a look at the possibilities and always see the bigger picture. You may not be satisfied with your current job, but you can make that job your dream career! How? Change your mindset! Having a boring task and wanted to resign? Have you realized the current population of unemployed these days? Sometimes, the luxury to be selective is not given to everyone, but choosing to have a goal and make that happen is always a choice! The choice is yours to make. :)

To wrap up, whether you are having your job or a career, there’s nothing wrong with that as long as you are able to fill your purpose and you are not stepping on somebody else's toes. After all, our life is not defined by our job or career, but it is how we touch people’s lives while living ours.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle.”

– Steve Jobs