So, What Do You *Actually* Do?
Ah, that dreaded question. The one you face at every party, family gathering, or awkward elevator ride. "So, what do you do for a living?"
I brace myself. Do I give the short, sweet, and likely confusing answer? Or the long, rambling explanation that will inevitably glaze over their eyes? Decisions, decisions.
The Usual Suspects
I could say I'm in "tech." That's broad enough, right? It's like saying you're in "food." Do you grow it? Sell it? Eat copious amounts of it? The possibilities are endless.
Or maybe I'll try the classic: "I work in marketing." Cue the knowing nods. Everyone thinks they know what that means.
Spoiler alert: they probably don't. It's not all Mad Men and witty slogans, folks. (Though, wouldn't that be nice?)
The Unpopular Opinion Section
Here's where it gets controversial. I'm just going to say it: I think "What do you do?" is a deeply flawed question.
It instantly defines you. Puts you in a box. Like you're only the sum of your paycheck.
Shouldn't we be asking more interesting things? Like, "What are you passionate about?" Or, "What's the weirdest thing you've seen this week?"
I'd much rather hear about your secret obsession with collecting vintage spoons than your meticulously crafted quarterly report.
The Art of the Evasion
Over the years, I've developed a few go-to responses. The "I'm figuring it out" approach works surprisingly well. It's vague, yet intriguing.
Then there's the "I'm a professional napper" answer. Guaranteed to get a laugh. (Though, sadly, it's not actually my job... yet.)
My personal favorite? A slightly bewildered: "I'm not entirely sure what I do. But people seem to pay me for it."
More Than Just a Job Title
Look, I get it. People are trying to make conversation. Finding common ground. But our jobs don't define us.
We're more than our 9-to-5 grinds. We're complex, multi-faceted humans with hobbies, dreams, and questionable taste in reality TV.
So, the next time someone asks you that question, feel free to get creative. Throw them for a loop. Challenge the status quo.
Maybe, just maybe, we can start having more interesting conversations.
In Conclusion (Sort Of)
Next time someone ask me: So, what do you do for living?
I will answer with: I am currently thinking about what is the best way to answer this question.
Because that is the real answer, is not it?
