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I've come to realize I will never be happy with a job unless it materially helps people. How do I even start facilitating this? (hexbear.net)

submitted 2 years ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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I've worked in SaaS tech my whole life. Been out of a job for a few months now, and while I do have debts to pay that would be much easier with a paycheck from the tech field, I wouldn't be fulfilled with an office job.

The thing is, I'm not even sure what Id want to do yet. I've known my whole life that I was put here to help others, and there are so many causes out there I could work with that would help. So I think figuring that out is probably the very first step.

I'd also need to make above a certain threshold to be able to really function unless/even if I get a roommate (someone is checking my place out this month, so that might happen in January for me). Seems like figuring out what that number is between bills, rent, food, etc would be a good second step.

Beyond that, anyone else here made drastic career changes (I also don't give a shit about having a "career") that worked out for them like this? Would love any advice or tips! Tell me your story!

Thanks all, love you!

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[-] [email protected] 2 points 2 years ago

I realized the same thing a long time ago (because I'm old, not because I'm a remarkably good person). First I worked in telemarketing and aggressive sales, then when I couldn't do that any more I moved on to mail distribution. Sorting mail by zip code and weight and helping failed deliveries find the right person an so on. I really appreciated how at least me doing my job wasn't actively hurting anyone, but it wasn't really enough. Now I work helping neurodivergent kids pass school. The pay is shit, but wow have I managed to dodge this whole "alienation" thing that is so big in socialist theory. I don't know what your threshold is or what people make in different occupations where you live, but take a look at education. The materially helping people part is there from the start, and whatever education you already do have is likely to at least help. Pay may be an issue, but you should at least look into it.

[-] [email protected] 2 points 2 years ago

how material is necessary? You could get more socially useful (though still indirect) work with a minimal skillset change if you go into civic tech. Some city job, or a nonprofit doing data analytics on police crimes or something. I've been daydreaming about becoming a welder or bus driver, or salting for unions at "entry-level" jobs.

[-] [email protected] 2 points 2 years ago

That initial question is one I'm not sure I have an answer to yet. Someone else suggested a similar route to what you suggest, ill save that link! Thanks!

[-] [email protected] 1 points 2 years ago

Find like minded people and form a co-op

[-] [email protected] 1 points 2 years ago

Become a machinist and weasel your way into a medical device contract manufacturing shop

[-] [email protected] 1 points 2 years ago

Considering that you already are in the tech environment, have you considered biotechnology/bioinformatics? It's what I'm switching my major to.

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this post was submitted on 07 Dec 2023

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