More Than a Paycheck: Why Having a Job Matters
There are many reasons why people work. These reasons are different for everyone. Some people may like to work because it gives them a paycheck while others may like interacting with customers. Here are some key reasons why having a job in the community is an important part of being an adult:
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Financial Freedom
Money. Money is, of course, important. Having a job in the community means that you will receive a paycheck for the work you do. The more hours you work, the more money you will make. You can use this money to pay your bills (such as cell phone or groceries), to buy something for yourself, or to save it for when you need it later. -
Doing something you enjoy. Believe it or not, having a job can be fun, especially if you are working at a place you are comfortable with and doing tasks you enjoy. The great thing about having a job is that you can learn many skills and find new things that you never knew you liked to do.
Follow Your Passion
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Making new friends. Many people make new friends at the places they work. Your work friends can help you solve problems and being around people you enjoy helps you feel like you are part of the team.
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Watch How You Grow
Build self-confidence. Doing something new can be scary. This includes getting your first job. You might be worried that you won’t be able to learn new things or get along with your co-workers. Many people feel this way, but once they begin the job, they see that they are really good at it. Having a job helps us succeed at new things and trying new things is how we grow. -
It’s what adults do. Once you leave high school you are free to make your own choices, but you will also have the responsibilities of being an adult. What are some of the things that adults do? Having a job is certainly on that list. Employment helps us structure our days and shows the world that you are a person with skills and talents.
Adult Responsibilities
Activity
Create a slide show that describes why having a job is important to you. Find 3-5 images on the internet that show how your life will be different once you have a job and put them into the slide show. The images could be of a place where you would like to work, something you would like to do with your money, or the way you will feel being part of a team. You can share the slideshow at your next team meeting.
Jessica “Steps Out of Shell” with Summer Job
In Belmont County, Jessica worked at the Sleep Inn & Suites as part of a summer employment program aimed at teaching high school students new job skills. Her boss and support team say the job has helped Jessica advocate for herself and communicate more with others. Watch her story.