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AtSeDaEsEpPoAoSnA's avatar

Do you ever feel like your job is a waste of your time?

Asked by AtSeDaEsEpPoAoSnA (1505points) July 15th, 2008

When you are at work do you ever feel like you are wasting your time? You ask yourself “How have I been in this so long?” and no answer. I am a career kind of person, but at times I feel as if my field of expertise and the knowledge that I have acquired is not worth what I have gone through. Situations anyone?

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20 Answers

Knotmyday's avatar

Nope. I like my job. I don’t love it, but I like it. Pays the bills, and allows me to pursue my hobbies and avocations. Plus, the sky’s the limit in terms of promotional opportunity here; the only real limiting factor is motivation (with a bit ‘o aptitude sprinkled on top).
Also, I can Fluther at work!!!

wildflower's avatar

Only for about 39 hours a week!

Harp's avatar

I don’t. It’s very important to me to be able to see concrete, beneficial results from my work. I don’t care so much about salary and benefits, as long as my family’s needs are covered, but I do need to feel that my work is having a positive impact on the world. The job I have now gives me that. I work directly with people who have extreme challenges, and when my job is done, I can know that their lives have become easier. Nobody, including me, is getting rich off of what I do, and that seems somehow right to me.

wildflower's avatar

Too late to edit my response above. I should have added a disclaimer that I only just got home from work….

In fairness, it’s not all that bad. I work with some very interesting people and have access to a lot of cool toys!

scamp's avatar

I used to feel that way, but I quit, and now I love my new job. This job has done more for me in only 6 weeks than the old one did in 6 years.

gailcalled's avatar

Re: Knot; I think he has the ideal job; some relaxation and meditation time, lots of fresh air and exercise, a few short sprints and the legal obligation to caress boss some people around. (Don’t ask, don’t tell.)

flameboi's avatar

If you do, you better quit. My current job is great because I have the chance to make other peoples dreams come true (or at least give the good news)... I used to work in finance and it felt like a dead end :S

cheebdragon's avatar

No, but I do feel that not having a job is a waste of my time…..I should really get a job….

marinelife's avatar

I think that if you feel that way, you should start to consider a change. Maybe what is right for you is a different position where you are, maybe a new company, or maybe a complete change of career. Take some time to really think about it.

We spend too much time at work to end up feeling like we are wasting our time.

Good luck.

tinyfaery's avatar

Unfortunately, yes. My work is such that I don’t see many positive outcomes. But, every once in awhile I witness true transformation, and it does make-up for all of the failure.

rdwire's avatar

that’s what I thougth. But I realize not having one is worst.

scamp's avatar

cheebdragon , You’re a Mom, right? That is a big job, and not a waste of time at all.

AtSeDaEsEpPoAoSnA's avatar

I’m just getting tired of this line of work, I’m thinking I want to help children in some way. I need to get back to school. I just work 70 hours a week from 7 to 6 p.m. to support my fiance, our dog, and the house. I’m not complaining about the bills, I’m not getting compensated enough to get myself ahead. Right now my fiance is in school and works part time to stay somewhat busy. I guess I wish I had time to take a break and draw, or have a hobby.

marinelife's avatar

@AtSeDaEsEpPoAoSnA I feel your pain. I did that for many years. Stepping off that treadmill was the best thing I ever did!

Start small. Steal one hour every day just to be with yourself. Surely the difference between 65 and 70 won’t make a huge difference workwise, but it could be a huge boon to your soul.

JH's avatar

at least u havnt given up like other losers in the streets asking for money.

cheebdragon's avatar

@scamp- your right, thank you : )

AtSeDaEsEpPoAoSnA's avatar

I don’t think I would ever give up, I love her way too much.

shudderbrother's avatar

I really think everybody should ask that question from time to time. Am I using my time and energy on stuff that matters to me? Ok, maybe we can´t all love our jobs. But there are amany ways to feel content with your work. And if you get back to feeling it´s a waste of time I´d say you should take that hunch seriously. I did twice and I never ever regretted that! You want to help children in some way? Good! Why don´t you check out the possibilities, and if it´s right for you I think you´re gonna know! Go for it & good luck!

scamp's avatar

You’re welcome cheeb!

ninjaxmarc's avatar

life is a job.

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