For a majority of my life I have heard some variation of the phrase “get a real job” from the people around me once they heard that I was an entrepreneur and a musician. This little diddy comes in all different flavors, so don’t be surprised if you find it hiding behind the pseudonym of “you need something to fall back on” as well. It’s pretty much one in the same.
I always wear the fact that I don’t have a “real job” like everyone else around me as a badge of honor. The funny thing (funny meaning ironic) is that this, for a lack of a better term, fake job that I have is an awful lot of real work. In order to make a good living I have to be very well versed in all aspects of marketing. I have to be a good leader as well as a good follower. I have to teach some and learn from others. In any given day I am a salesman, speaker, programmer, teacher, designer, accountant, writer, account executive and support technician. I spend a lot of time traveling or sitting in a room by myself. I rarely have the luxury of being able to have a bad day. I miss a lot of holidays because I have to take care of my business.
I’m sure I am leaving something out, but my head is a little foggy from staying up until 2am working on my blog. It all seems pretty real to me, doesn’t it?
My point is that whoever ignorantly blurts out the phrase “get a real job” to you because you are following your dreams just doesn’t get it. Owning your own business is about as real as it gets. It’s hard work. It requires that you wear a lot of hats. There is no such thing as steady work without the constant fear of being unemployed again by the end of the day. Yet I wouldn’t trade it in for anything.
Being able to spend your life doing something that you enjoy and are passionate about beats the hell out of having a crummy “real job” working for a “real boss” and having nothing else to look forward to except clocking out for happy hour everyday. Don’t feel bad and don’t let anyone steal your dream. The next time someone tells you to get a real job, smile and wear it as a badge of honor…you know the truth. Then get back to work!
About Marc
