I like working. There are things about working that appeal to me more than other aspects of working but overall I like the satisfaction and feeling of self-worth that working provides me. Is it about getting paid well for the work? Sort of, but not really. Getting paid well is important at points in one’s career, as we can’t live the life we want to live without the resources to fund that lifestyle. Many people don’t enjoy the peace of mind that comes with financial security, and therefore, the money is a very high priority.
I am not embarrassed that I have financial security but I do think it’s important to remember that I am part of a very lucky minority.
At this point in my career – and given the financial security that I enjoy – what I do next involves different variables than just “how much will I get paid.” In fact the most important thing is the people I work with. I want to work with people that I respect, enjoy, learn from and can contribute to. I love being part of a team. I love leading teams and being part of a team built on trust. I have made some bad decisions and ended up at firms where the teamwork was not ‘encouraging’ and I didn’t last.
My last company (a small software company called Aternity) was a great experience – my colleagues and the CEO who recruited me were all capable, energetic, committed, and great team mates. Sadly the company was taken over or I’d still be there.
At this point in my career – and I do still like working – my priority is to work with the right people.
But that’s just me.
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