Just a thought I had in the car. You mentioned WEIRD society. When between 10 and 30 I couldn't understand how older people could be in retail jobs, like grocery clerks or furniture store salesmen. My WEIRD mentality told me how much I needed to rise to the top. Having experienced a few professional setbacks, I actually appreciate a position that has less management and less stress from being in a top director type position. I'm happier and less stressed, but still always nagged that my full skillset and experience isn't being used.
I've realized many people are just happier being in positions that don't require the stress to get to the top. They can just go home, turn off work, and live their lives. My daughter who is moving into adult life seems to be headed for this track rather than the one I lived and for many years hoped for her.
This also got me thinking about the family business though. Would these people be happier if they could do these type of jobs around people that have a long lifetime commitment to (notice I didn't say love or like even). Who knows? Probably depends on each situation. Would they feel more fulfilled that they were helping build the family legacy and wealth rather than funneling their efforts to some soulless, faceless corporation?
But would my relationship with my daughter just become more economic in that situation? Just some thoughts I had.
Just a thought I had in the car. You mentioned WEIRD society. When between 10 and 30 I couldn't understand how older people could be in retail jobs, like grocery clerks or furniture store salesmen. My WEIRD mentality told me how much I needed to rise to the top. Having experienced a few professional setbacks, I actually appreciate a position that has less management and less stress from being in a top director type position. I'm happier and less stressed, but still always nagged that my full skillset and experience isn't being used.
I've realized many people are just happier being in positions that don't require the stress to get to the top. They can just go home, turn off work, and live their lives. My daughter who is moving into adult life seems to be headed for this track rather than the one I lived and for many years hoped for her.
This also got me thinking about the family business though. Would these people be happier if they could do these type of jobs around people that have a long lifetime commitment to (notice I didn't say love or like even). Who knows? Probably depends on each situation. Would they feel more fulfilled that they were helping build the family legacy and wealth rather than funneling their efforts to some soulless, faceless corporation?
But would my relationship with my daughter just become more economic in that situation? Just some thoughts I had.
Really enjoyed the last two articles. Thanks!