One of my main problems with the current 8-5 that I have is that I do not find my job fulfilling. I experience frustration because I keep seeking this in my position, and have been for two years, and have yet to find it. Similarly, when I gave notice, the chair of the department told me that he wasn't surprised because the work I do isn't "fulfilling and rewarding" work (his words...).
I was listening to NPR this morning and a PhD graduate, who has been unable to find teaching employment, is working as a clerk for the Census 2010 and stated that he has no problem with this because he finds the work he does fulfilling. I realized just how much I need this feeling in all of the work I do. This is probably why I work 3 part time jobs, teach friends to knit, work with my hands, and continually seek new hobbies.
What then IS fulfilling work? I read an article recently that people find more happiness in fulfilling jobs than in jobs with higher pay. Sometimes these two go hand in hand, often they don't. Volunteer work is often suggested for those suffering depression because helping others and feeling useful can cause chemicals in the brain to shift.
I find my teaching to be fulfilling. It is challenging, I feel I am doing some good, and it keeps me sharp. I enjoy that "aha!" moment when what I say and what they do and finally what they understand clicks. I like having to continually adapt, reconsider, and train. And, I have fun.
And this, more than anything, is why I am taking up this journey and move. To seek fulfillment, to seek a happiness, to seek fun.
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I heard that same program this morning! At first I thought it was a little depressing that a PhD was working as a clerk, but then I thought hey, at least he's doing something ACTUALLY useful as opposed to something only a handful of ivory-tower academics *think* is useful.
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