If you’re anything like me, you probably peeped the title and wondered, “what more could someone possibly tell me about my 9 to 5?” Now, this could very much just be my targeted feed, but lately it’s post after post from those who escaped their corporate routine and now shout from the top of their lungs how you need to do the same- and I’m tired of it.
If you don’t work a 9 to 5, I want you to stick around too, because I will 10000% still hit some points that matter to you.
Now here’s the truth and what we need to understand:
Some people prefer the 9to5 life, and some people don’t. Simple as that.
Some are money-driven. Perhaps they’ll find “their thing” later on down the line, but for now they really don’t mind a consistent schedule, pay, benefits, couple weeks vacay and great work-life balance (whatever that means for you). It works for some.
What we also need to remember is the fact that our society pressures us to choose who we want to be at 18, and if we go to college the goal right after is to get a “good job” because that “good job” will make us successful in the eyes of this world. But what if.. and just hang with me here, we actively as a society actually help each other create our unique individual paths, even after we’re 18? I know it’s quite the concept… but this is how many find themselves “stuck” or “lost” early on.
Everyone who knows me knows at heart, my 9to5 is temporary. I’ve floated around trying to find my place, enjoying the experience, gaining more skills, meeting incredible people – but eventually I will bow out (wayyyy before 65) and that my friends, is not a secret. I’m doing what I have to so that I can do what I want to. Honestly people think Generation Ziz is my full-time job already. I’m not defined by the job I have now, and you don’t have to be either. It’s not your 9to 5, but your 5 to 9. Who are you outside of work? What are you known for? What do you want to BE known for? At the end of it all, what do you want to leave behind?
The other day I saw someone I haven’t seen in a while, but we keep up with each other on social media. Never has this person engaged on any of my posts but when we ran into each other she said, “Generation Zizzz!!!!” Not Aziza, not Ziz, but Generation Ziz. That is how I’m known and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
While the 9to5 isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, neither is entrepreneurship. It’s tough, sad, lonely, and honestly not meant for everyone. Which is ALSO FINE. It’s not just one or the other, so let’s just let people BE.
But wait, there’s more.
Naturally, let’s break down why so many hate their corporate job (Chief Happiness Officer in me, I have to). Now, remember earlier when I asked you to hang on to the idea that we should help each other get to where we want to be (or help find what that is)?
What we also need to understand about the 9 to 5 life is that the organization you work for is actually responsible for a part (notice I say part) of your overall happiness. I loathe placing that responsibility in their hands but people would be a lot happier if their organization made them so. I’ve had a lot of lows in my career but it’s almost always bad leadership, poor management-I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. But each low was because the organization failed ME.
The organization either didn’t have values, or didn’t live up to them in the day-to-day operations. Guess what makes up an organization though? People. Guess who’s responsible for creating those values and a purpose-driven mission? People. Who’s responsible for creating a plan and executing it? People.
Culture eats strategy for breakfast.
-Peter Drucker
Your PEOPLE make the culture and that’s a simple fact. There’s a saying in the leadership space and it’s “culture eats strategy for breakfast.” A company can have the best of intentions, but if there’s a lack of accountability then the plan goes to waste.
Now, there are a lot of organizations doing it right, and the goal should be to continue this work by our own hand. We need less of “grind” culture and more empowerment. You don’t need a title to be a leader on the job, and a lot of organizational culture is honestly treating others how you wish to be treated and with respect. If you do happen to be in a position of leadership just know you have power at your fingertips. You can ignite someone’s spark on the job, give people chances, challenge them and truly help people who are still trying to figure it out (and perhaps that is a never ending road).
There is a lot more I can say about this, but they 9-5 would be hated less if workplace happiness was considered more of a priority. Yes, many work just to pay bills, but shouldn’t matter if you’re in the field you studied or if you’re just trying to make ends meet – you shouldn’t have to be miserable at the same time.
For my young professional reading this who feels like they are lacking purpose in their life and career, sign up for my free 30-minute clarity call coaching session HERE!
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Ziz <3
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