Why I Can’t QUIT My 9-5 Job. A Message to Gen Z ‼️#over50

Summary

In this unscripted video, the speaker reflects on the challenges of working a 9-to-5 job, particularly after a recent move that requires a 130-mile daily commute. She discusses the financial strain of high gas expenses, anxiety about being far from her child, and the sensory overload of a cubicle environment. While she appreciates her job for its benefits like a pension and insurance, she encourages younger generations to prioritize their passions and explore new opportunities. Her message emphasizes resilience, the importance of personal well-being, and the need for a work-life balance in today's evolving job landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 Long commutes can significantly increase stress and anxiety for workers.
• 😀 Financial burdens, such as high gas and maintenance costs, can affect overall job satisfaction.
• 😀 Being away from family, especially children, creates emotional distress for working parents.
• 😀 Job security, benefits like pensions and insurance, can be reasons to stay in a challenging job.
• 😀 Generation X values hard work, commitment, and maintaining a good reputation.
• 😀 Younger generations are encouraged to explore diverse career opportunities and not feel trapped in a job.
• 😀 Personal passions should be prioritized and monetized, especially in today's digital landscape.
• 😀 It's important to manage anxiety through coping strategies like breathing exercises.
• 😀 The work culture needs to adapt, as working into old age is not sustainable for many.
• 😀 Change is essential, and the new generation has the potential to reshape workplace norms.

Q & A

What prompted the speaker to create this follow-up video?

The speaker wanted to share their experiences and feelings about working a 9-to-5 job after their previous video gained significant attention.

How far does the speaker drive to work each day?

The speaker drives a total of 130 miles each day, which includes 65 miles to work and 65 miles back home.

What are some challenges the speaker faces due to their job's location?

Challenges include high gas and maintenance costs, anxiety about being far from their child, and stress from long commutes and traffic.

Why does the speaker feel unsettled about their job location?

They are concerned about being unable to reach their child quickly in case of an emergency due to the long distance from home.

What are the financial impacts of the speaker's commuting costs?

The speaker spends approximately $400 a month on gas and maintenance, which significantly reduces their annual income.

What reasons does the speaker give for staying at their job?

The speaker mentions having a pension, insurance, and financial responsibilities like their child's braces and band expenses as key reasons for staying.

What advice does the speaker offer to younger generations regarding jobs?

They encourage young people not to feel locked into a job, to invest in their passions, and to explore opportunities available through technology.

How does the speaker describe their work environment?

The speaker describes it as challenging due to noise sensitivity and sensory overload from working in a cubicle.

What personal strategies does the speaker use to cope with stress?

They practice deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety, especially as an introvert with noise sensitivity.

What perspective does the speaker offer about the new generation's approach to work?

The speaker believes the new generation is making a positive impact by challenging the traditional work model, advocating for changes to avoid working into their 70s and 80s.