I Don’t Dream of Labor
You are not defined by your Profession
Labor
noun
1. Productive activity, especially for the sake of economic gain
2. A body of persons engaged in such activity, especially for those working wages.
I do not dream of labor.
In the past century and post-industrial revolution, the view of labor has shifted. While trade jobs are important as well as administrative work in order to organize tasks, labor has increasingly become a lifestyle. Although working jobs have been a part of society for several thousands of years, the current work climate is built on being available to work around the clock.
While we live in a capitalist society in which money is crucial in order to sustain ourselves, it has become impossible to separate the work you do to earn income and activities for leisure. Under the capitalist regime, all hobbies have been turned into means to earn extra income or a side hustle.
The constant need to work or prove yourself as productive to countless members of society often leaves you feeling burnt out. While tasks completed in a traditional office setting are deemed work, there are countless other occupations — mostly in trades that aren’t given the title of a real job since income isn't earned in a traditional manner.
However, I would argue that regardless of the occupation, your occupation should not define your existence. While it is important and fulfilling to be able to contribute to society, doing what ignites passion in your soul — it is also important to remember that there is more to life than simply earning an income or finding a stable job.
Many working-class individuals require a stable income to attain a minimum standard of living, often working up to 13 hours a day, earning just enough for the basic necessities. The opposite is true for those who were born in privileged backgrounds and are handed the luxuries of life.
The daily routine is simply designed around making an income. Society is divided in an unequal manner that benefits the wealthy while constantly exploiting those lacking basic necessities. While this may be considered an exchange — trade of money for labor, I would argue that no amount of money can make up for time and energy used to compensate for tasks. Often jobs considered essential are underpaid while those with minimal work are given more leverage simply due to their title or setting i.e white-collar jobs.
From the moment we begin school to the day we begin our lifelong career journey, we are constantly asked “what are your passions?” or “what profession do you see yourself working on after you finish studying?”. While it is important to have a passion, one that creates and brings value to your life and to those around you, it’s important to remember that this should not consume you.
Your biggest and first priority should always be “you”. As an individual, you are worthy regardless of how productive you have been throughout the day. You are worthy of rest and being cared for regardless of your profession and level of productivity. Your value is intrinsic and remains in that manner. Instead of seeking positions that further push the narrative to toxic productivity — or filling your day with so much activity to remain productive that you lose yourself in the hustle. You are not your job, although this capitalist system may try to convince you otherwise.
With this topic trending on Youtube, I stumbled upon a video that asked a very interesting question. How do we uncapitalize the capitalization of the capitalist world?
Capitalism is a huge topic and plays a huge role in contemporary society. This will be deconstructed in the next article- in bite-size pieces.
Further Reading
