Is the 9-to-5 Mentality Outdated?

During my recent job hunting endeavors, in which I have endlessly applied to 9-5 pm jobs, I have had a revaluation. I’m not even excited about job prospects because the 9-5 position is becoming a bit outdated. Who says that I have to work for a company I don’t even care about just because it is a societal norm?

After talking to a friend about my frustrations, she gave me some of the best advice I’ve gotten in awhile. Now I know I’m very fortunate to have a college degree and my parent’s support, which lets me explore my options. But I also have to note that I have been applying to countless on a daily basis, and have had about 12 interviews in the last 3 weeks. Okay, so now that is off my chest I can continue.

Her advice was simple: take it easy on myself. Stop beating myself up for not having a job.

She told me to enjoy my yoga training, get the most out of it, and work on what I love. What I love is yoga and writing, and I honestly believe that if I take the time to work on both of these passions something will come from it. Something that I actually want out of life.

Careers are important, but so is happiness. I just declined a job that would be paying me the bare minimum for 70-hour workweeks. Yes it would be nice to have a job, but do I need to do something I despise? No. Do I need a job to validate my existence? No. 9-5 jobs are outdated. Look around, many people are making their own work, whether it is freelance PR, writing, making a website, etc. We make our own luck, not other people. Now everyday is different, and I really am trying to stay positive during this transitional period of my life. So, I try and remind myself that I am doing the best I can, and times have changed. This is a time where we have so much information at our fingertips. Dive into different realms of the world, be an artists, a writer, an entrepreneur, do what you want and not what society sees best fit.

Caitlin Hatch is a recent graduate of The University of Texas with a degree in government. She has a passion for politics, yoga, and social media. She is currently training to be a yoga instructor through Black Swan Yoga in Austin, TX.