Archive for October, 2009

Let me start by saying that I grew up in Detroit, so my view may be (is likely) skewed by the Big 3 and union influence. I find it is only fair to be upfront and present my potential bias before you read on.

No, I am not going to argue the value of unions or American manufacturing jobs. On the contrary, I am going to pass judgment on the next generation or two. There is no doubt that a majority of the generation of unions and manufacturing are tough, hardworking individuals who understand the value of a good job and a dollar earned.

But, did they do a disservice to the younger generations by providing endless support and comfort? Have the days of “everyone wins” and “no one fails” created a nation of wimps?

Sure not everyone grows up this way, and not everyone feels entitled, but the “I need to be valued” club is growing at alarming rates.

Since when did our college educations and our jobs become the place for fulfillment? I often hear the entitlement crowd crowing about how they need to feel that they are making a difference. They want to leave their mark on this world, blah, blah. Of course you do, don’t we all?

But, why do some expect it from their job? Why not volunteer, work with your church or community organization, contribute to a political or social cause that you value, or travel to spread good will to the less fortunate? Why should you be paid to be a good citizen or neighbor? Seriously.

Stop looking to get paid for what you should be living, and accept payment for doing a job. Stop wasting your time majoring in subjects like social welfare, generic marketing, and music, and start learning math and science.

It’s fine to have passions and hobbies. But as we continue to major in the feel-good subjects and seek fulfillment from our jobs, we continue to lose our status in the the world and we become less competitive in technology and the things that rule the world economy.

It takes money to live the lifestyles we are accustomed to, and as our commitment to research and technology declines so does our ability to be charitable. In other words, the ability to do fulfilling work will be stifled by the inability to compete in the world market.

So, to all those in the “fulfillment” generation/club, get a job, work hard, be grateful for it, and spend the money you earn on those activities that fill your emotional needs. You’ll be amazed at how much of a difference you can make in society when you have a good job albeit just a job.

Sometimes the most important part of the answer is the question you ask.