What do you like most about working...

[PrincessFiona]

OK...this sounds like a real luxury kind of a question...we aren't supposed to like working, right? It is supposed to be a means to an end! But what do you like the most? I think I like the validation that comes from a job well done. There is something about doing the job, getting the kudos and the paycheck that beats folding another load of laundry while the kids drag a bag of cereal throug the house and the baby steps on it while they walk and then having to clean that up!

I also like the challenge of solving new problems.

kris

[Auspicious]

We aren't supposed to like working?? That could be one for the debate corner right there. I feel like I'm definitely supposed to like working.

I would say that the thing I like most is working with other people who are themselves intelligent/talented/on-the-ball/whatever and having them need my information/skills/opinion/help/whatever. To be like "wow, this person I respect wants my contribution!" and then feelling like that makes me part of a team of people that's putting out really good work. That's when coming to work is good.

There's other stuff I like, too (ahem, paycheck!), but peer respect is probably #1.

There are a lot of things I liked -- and miss -- about working. In the last few years, I really got into a good groove. I felt much more comfortable speaking up in general and for myself. Also, I think with more experience under my belt I was able to be choosier about the work that I did which usually meant choosing work that I liked.

With some of my jobs, I feel like I made a real immediate difference in people's lives. I liked solving problems, learning how to do new things. I've met some interesting people (and some real toads) along the way and both kinds have taught me some good lessons.

It's been 10 months (but who's counting) since I have worked (for a paycheck). It's been a difficult transition for me. And if things work out right, I'll be starting a new project in the fall.

[DCJenn]

It's been six weeks and I can tell you what I miss:

1) The ego boost that came from being one of 20 in the nation to have my job.

2) The emotional satisfaction that came with making sure the people who needed us were taken care of properly

3) The paycheck.

4) The travel- loved, loved, loved the travel and the break from 'home'.

5) The interaction with my colleagues who are some of the best and brightest EVER in the field of disability.

Jenn

[Flynn]

I haven't worked in almost three years but I miss (former high school Eng. teacher) :

These aren't in any order:

1.) being paid to read and analyze literature -- most of the time the books I taught were great!

2.) planning a lesson you know will be both educational AND kind of fun

3.) coming up with essay questions that make the "grade busters" in your class tip their hat to you at the challenge

4.) getting to know great kids

5.) the intense bond you have with other teachers (adult positive affirmation)

6.) winning a difficult parent over

7.) WOW. there were so many things I really liked about my job and miss. but not enough to go back while my kids are young...