“What benefits does this job offer me?” is the predominant question that is on most of the job-seekers mind. But when one is trained to ‘do well’ in interviews, this question usually takes a backseat. But in cases of senior positions, this does pop out in the final rounds, when the interviewer is clear as to why (s)he need this person. But unfortunately in many cases, the answers to this question are only realized when the person gets a first hand experience when (s)he joins the organization. And believe me, then starts the juggle of survival.
As a career seeker, though it is vitally important to take into account, the benefits you want or desire in a job, you should also be prepared to accept the sacrifices you can cheerfully make for the job.
Just the other day, I was speaking to a friend (in a good job) who was looking out for a change. Taking the discussion further, we came to understand that she was looking for certain ‘more’ benefits in this change process. So when I quizzed her, about what some of those “benefits’ would demand of her, we came to a plateau of sadness. She was actually doing some real sacrifices (which she hates doing) in this present job and yet was willing to do more of the same in lieu of the desired benefits. Well, she has now decided to take up career coaching, but this is a picture of many high-flying individuals. It is with great sadness that I note that many of the sacrifices had resulted in relationship failures.
Are benefits really worth the sacrifices? Some of you could argue with me taking long-term progress as the goal. You may say, hardships are part of life and yet to reach success, one has to endure them. If becoming a Vice-President with a 6 figure monthly salary was a 5-year goal, it is well, definitely appreciated - but what about the journey? Some of the sacrifices usually are: time, relationships, health, and maybe ethics. Having reached that step in ladder, if you turn back, would you see all goodness and happiness in your life and in those around you?
There was a friend of mine, who had good values and many of us really appreciated him for that. But when he discovered the pathway to success, he started slowly forgetting the same values that had stood him in good stead with one and all. He called them as ‘sacrifices’ and said in order to grow, these had to be done. Little did he realize that his very personality and his once precious relationships were on the line! Well, he has indeed discovered a ‘successful’ life, and yes, has quite some friends, but has lost out on values, which his parents lovingly taught. To add to that, his relationship with his parents soured and I know for sure, not a day is lost when they don’t pray for his change. But he is in a position of power and wealth right now.
So what do you choose? God gave us freedom to choose. According to the Bible1, Adam and Eve (the first people) were given freedom to choose. They had a great life living in peace and harmony, but when they saw the ‘benefit’ of knowledge (distinguishing between good and evil) they decided to take certain steps. Some of the steps were, disobedience, breaking of trust, spoiling relationship with God, developing unhealthy relationship with Satan, hiding, holding back, throwing accusations etc. The greatest sadness of this ‘benefit’ that they got was also the ‘curse’ of death. For the very first time, an animal was killed to clothe them.
So what do you choose? I am not against searching for benefits in a job. Benefits are important but so are sacrifices! So while you do look for benefits in your career steps, do remember the sacrifices you need to make. If you are someone, who believes speaking the truth is important at all times, then it is vital that in your ‘benefit’ climb, you hold on to this beautiful value, God has blessed you with.
Remember you are called for great things. But in doing those great things, do not lose the real greatness that is inside you.
PS: Make a list of benefits and sacrifices carefully before you take up a career.
Count your blessings each day
Ashley J P
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