SOL: Stanzas of Life

Jobs, not Steve Jobs, rather a career process in-the-making.

JOBS: Journey, Occupation, Business, Success.

The journey of one’s career is not solely seen in their respective Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume. As a CV showcases certifications, research, and credentials for academic or medical professions, resumes outline work history and competency for other particular occupations. The emphasis placed on one’s work experience and accumulated knowledge is displayed through interview questions and application materials. Employers not only look at one’s past accomplishments but their future “fit” in the company. Characteristics such as organization, leadership, effective communication, positive attitude, and teamwork are highly valued amongst recruiters.

Occupations serve as career titles or placeholders and are a common question asked when getting to know someone for the first time. “Occupations are things people need to, want to, and are expected to do” (WFOT). The irony of an occupation is that a large majority of the population dislike their jobs. Confucius, Chinese philosopher and politician, states, “Choose a job that you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

Business, the activity of making one’s living, is simply put as “any activity or enterprise entered into for profit.” Often the impression of stocks, data analytics, and graphical charts depict the stereotype of finance careers. Business shapes our economy and influences the decisions consumers face. I view the world of business as an active volcano, where the upheaval of “capital magma” through the Earth’s “economy crust” leads to prosperity. The molten, surface lava of financial wealth cools to form a new path, or extension, of the pre-existing society around us.  In times of growth, this lava oozes into each crack of society and subsides by erosion in times of decay.

Success. The fractional crack between success and failure is thin. Likewise, the marginal gap between risk and reward is success. We will never fail if we do not take a risk. So, what is the apogee of success? This question may appear to have no answer, rather it is based on personal reflection and fulfillment.

You may wonder where jubilation enters the picture. Defined as a feeling of triumph, jubilation is expressed when one reflects on their accomplishments, publications, and promotions, yet it also lies within life’s moments of doubt. When we pause to question our position in the workforce, we realize our purpose and our work’s value. Through questioning, we strive to see jubilation in our job and overall life, as a member of humanity.