My Life as a Worker

sahmie (75)modModin Steem4Nigeria • last month


_{Editted using Pixellab app. image source; Pexels}

Being both a worker and a student comes with different experiences, expectations and duties, but then, one can still be the two all at once. Well, this is my account of life as a worker so far.

Are you currently a worker or student? How does it feel being what you are currently?

I am currently not a student but a worker and thinking about it now, I carry out certain activities required of me as a worker in my position and line of work to get something in return, usually money for my services rendered.

So well, being a worker feels like a mix of things as sometimes it's great, like when I finish a task and feel proud of what I've done, or better when
I get my paycheck and can buy something I really want. But then, other times, it's not so great, like when the work is boring, or my boss is grumpy, or even when I'm just tired. But even on those days, there's a feeling of purpose, like I'm part of something bigger, so you will still see me at the office.

What challenges have you faced being a student or worker? Do you sometimes feel like giving up?

Being a worker can be tough, no doubt about it and one of the biggest challenges is all the expectations. At work, I've got my boss expecting me to do things a certain way and on time. Then there's the pressure to always be "on," to be productive, and to fit in with others around, which can be a lot.

^{photos of me at the office}

Then at home, there's the family. Don't get me wrong, but then sometimes when family members depend on you, especially financially, it tends to add an additional pressure on you, as you want to help which can feel like a heavy weight trying to carry everyone.

And then again there is workload, which can just be too much sometimes, especially when being swamped with tasks, deadlines, and maybe not enough support, making it easy to get overwhelmed and feel like I am drowning.

But in all, giving up is not an option as I can't give up because at the end of the day, I've got just myself and no one else is going to do this for me. Well, it can be scary sometimes, but it's also empowering so I have to keep pushing, keep learning, and keep growing.

What has helped you cope these challenges you faced as a student or worker?

Well, thinking about how I deal with all the tough stuff at work. I tell you, it's not always easy, but here's what seems to help:

First off, setting boundaries is key. This has to do with me knowing what I can handle and saying "no" sometimes is important. I don't have to say yes to everything.

Then, I try to focus on the good stuff, like my supportive colleagues and gist partners, a task I actually enjoy, or the feeling of accomplishment, because as I am focusing on the positive, it can make the negative feel less overwhelming.

Taking care of myself is another huge one, like me eating well, getting enough sleep, and finding time to relax and do things I enjoy because if I'm run down, everything feels harder.

Finally, remembering my goals keeps me going. Why am I working? What am I saving for? What kind of life do I want? Keeping these things in mind gives me a reason to push through the hard times.

What's your worst memory as a student or worker?

Ugh, that feeling of having so much expected of me is the worst. It's like everyone thinks, "Oh, you're working now, so you've got it made". Some even say that I'm set for life, like all my problems are solved. But then, in truth, it's much more complicated.

_{In work action}	_{My Boss and I at work}

Then, there's the pressure from family, who might need help financially, there's the pressure on me to succeed, to prove myself, to always be doing better and to keep up appearances, to pretend everything's perfect when it's not.

The worst part? I can't always share what's really going on in my head, and if I'm careful with my money, I'm "stingy." If I say "no" to helping out, I'm selfish. It's like people don't see the hard work, the stress, the sacrifices I'm making. They just see the surface.

It's lonely sometimes, because I can't always be honest about what I'm going through. I have to carry this weight, this expectation, and it's exhausting. It's a constant reminder that I have to be strong, even when I don't feel like it.

I want to take this opportunity to invite @saintpaul17, @ikwal and @bossj23.