Job Vs. Career V.s Calling
3 minute read
Recently, someone asked me a question that got me thinking: “What is the difference between a job, a career and a calling?”
Let’s break it down.
A job is what you do to earn a living. It’s where you show up each day, clock in and out, and do your best. You might not be thinking long-term or aiming for promotions. It’s simply a means to an end.
On the other hand, a career is a long-term professional journey. It’s the path you follow in pursuit of your ultimate goals. While it doesn’t necessarily mean staying at the company forever, it does involve intentional decisions that serve a larger purpose.
And then there’s a calling. A calling is different - it’s something that resonates deep within you. It’s a persistent tug at your soul, starting perhaps as a quiet whisper or a distant dream. Over time, it becomes a guiding force, compelling you to explore and pursue it. Few are fortunate enough to align their job or career with their calling, but for those who do, it's truly magical.
Reflecting on my own experiences, the jobs I held during high school and college were just that - jobs. They provided income while I pursued my next steps. Some I enjoyed, some not so much, but all served their purpose as temporary roles.
Even my first post-college job fell into the job category for me - it was a strategic move but ultimately a stepping stone as I figured out my professional identity. My career truly began when I found a job that ignited my passion. Suddenly, days flew by with purpose, and I felt part of something meaningful. This marked the start of my journey in Human Resources, a field where I found my place and never looked back.
But beyond my career lies my calling - to build relationships and serve others. I discovered this by observing what brings me joy both personally and professionally. Once I recognized this, I used it as a guiding principle to align my decisions and aspirations.
It’s important to note that there’s no right or wrong path here. If you haven’t found your calling yet, that’s okay - it may reveal itself in time (try a vision board!). And if you’re in a job rather than a career, that’s okay too - as long as it works for where you’re at in your life right now (and you’re not waking up saying, ‘I hate my job!’), that’s what truly matters.
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