10 Things I’ve Learned From Having A Day Job
After having over 10 jobs at the age of 22, I figured that this would be a great opportunity for a blog post so that I can unpack some of the things I’ve learned from my experiences over the years.
Over the past few years I’ve entered into the world of entrepreneurship, and so many of the skills that I learned, have transferred effortlessly into my business today.
I used to underestimate the power of having a day job because I thought that all of my problems could be solved by starting a business.
What I failed to realize, is that all of the lessons I’ve learned, skills I’ve developed and problems I’ve overcome, have made me into the person that is now able to run a successful business.
Now I love having the advantage of a day job while I scale my business and invest in my future. It’s a secure cushion that allows me to not be controlled by money and be fully in control of my life.
I’ve learned so much from being an entrepreneur over the past year, but this post is all about highlighting the things I’ve learned from having a day job and how it affects me today.
- You Have To Care About Yourself More Than Your Job
Always put yourself first, whatever company you’re working for is always going to put itself first so you have to be willing to make your self-care a priority in your life.
You are replaceable in almost every job and that’s just the reality, it’s not necessarily the worst thing in the world but you have to remember this when you’re building your future.
- You Won’t Always Get Along With Your Boss
I’ve had some pretty terrible managers over the years, if you find yourself in that situation there’s a few different ways you can go about it.
Bosses are humans so you’ll have the good and the bad, the bad ones tend to make work-life a lot harder for you so keep that in mind when you’re looking for a new job.
If you enjoy your job but not your manager, try looking into moving into another team or department before giving up.
If that doesn’t work then it’s probably time to move on, one of the worst things you can do to yourself is sit in a job where you’re completely unhappy, there’s so much more out there in the world so be fearless and go after what you want!
- Start Working At A Young Age
I started working at 16 and I’m so glad that I did, although I wasn’t properly educated on finances at the time, I did learn at a young age how to manage money and develop a strong work ethic.
Another huge pro of starting to work and save at a young age is that you’ll also be able to retire earlier!
- Start Saving At A Young Age
I didn’t start saving towards long term goals until I hit my 20s, If I had started at 16 I’d probably have over 30K in the bank right now.
However, I still am only 22 and I’ve accumulated thousands in savings for my future already!
If you’re still in your 20’s take this as a sign to get your money in order and start a few savings accounts for your future.
It doesn’t take much time or effort to save some extra cash every month and you’ll be so grateful that you did in the future.
- Money Comes And Goes
Money can be spent faster than it takes to make it so be aware that money always comes and goes. This point is also meant to reassure you that you’ll earn more money even if you don’t have much right now, as long as you’re willing to try new things and put yourself out there money will come to you.
There were times when I would panic about spending my last few dollars but now that I’m looking back it’s kind of funny because I’m in such a different place and either way I was able to make more money at some point regardless.
- Your Money Won’t Save Itself
You get paid the funds but it’s up to YOU to manage it. Your money won’t save itself so remember that everything you want in your life is up to you to get it.
Don’t blame anyone for your lack of ability to save money, it’s only as hard as you make it unless you really are living in extremely difficult situations.
Want to learn more about how to manage your money better? Read my blog post “6 Tips For Managing Your Money Better.”
- Always Have An Emergency Fund
I’ve gotten laid off twice in the past year and quit every other job I’ve ever had.
Between periods of unemployment, you usually need some time to look for another job.
This means that you need money to survive while you look for work. If you don’t have any money saved you’ll most likely find it very hard to get by and make ends meet especially if you don’t qualify for EI.
You will only fail yourself if you don’t have a backup and THANK GOODNESS I learned my lesson from the first time and had a nice little cushion to fall on when I got laid off for the second time during COVID-19!
- Employers Will Take Advantage Of You If You Let Them
Employers will use you for everything you’ve got if you let them. They will benefit from your hard work and will gladly accept you doing more than you’re asked so that they can make more money.
Do not fall for the if I work hard enough I’ll get noticed scam, do what’s asked of you and focus the rest of your energy doing things YOU love!
If you work at a job you love then kudos to you and continue enjoying your best life.
- Keep Your Job If You Want To Start A Business
I started my blog one year ago and I only made my first dollar after a year into the business.
Let me tell you that having a day job and income while you’re building a business is the smartest thing you can do.
A few years ago I was too naive to think that I needed to keep my day job while building a business when I got to the point where I had no money and no success in my business I was extremely humbled.
I regret that way of thinking but at least I now know how important it is to have a steady income while you build a brand for yourself.
Also in terms of skill-building and networking, your day job is probably a good place to start growing that side business!
- You Can Create Financial Freedom And Location Independence With A Low Paying Job
I’ve saved 10K in 7 months on a 35K year salary, so I do not believe that you can’t create substantial wealth with a low income.
With the right priorities, frugal living and a good understanding of personal finance you can literally create the life of your dreams.
Overall, there’s so much to learn from having a day job, some lessons are harder to learn than others but nonetheless it’s usually all worth it.
One key takeaway is that your job can be anything you make it, I highly encourage anyone who’s unhappy with their jobs to make a change!
Whether that’s getting a new job, starting a business or just moving somewhere else within the company, do what need’s to be done for your happiness.
You deserve a life of happiness, so why not start with your career.
Don’t forget though that there’s so much to be learned from places of employment so don’t be too quick to give up before you’ve taken some knowledge and experience.
If you enjoyed this post then I encourage you to like and share with friends and family so that I can keep this blog going!
Also, if you’re interested in supporting the Black Lives Matter Movement then I encourage you to make a purchase from the BLM Tote Bag Collection in my Etsy shop.
