Let’s be real. We’ve been told a 9–5 job is the “safe” choice — the responsible path, the grown-up thing to do.
But if you’ve ever sat at your desk, stomach in knots, wondering if one mistake will cost you your job… that doesn’t sound safe. It sounds like expensive anxiety.
I used to believe I was lucky to have a full-time job. The benefits, the routine, the direct deposit. But behind the steady paycheck was constant pressure:
- The fear of being laid off.
- The panic of unread emails.
- The guilt of using my earned PTO.
- The feeling that I had no control over my own time.
Sound familiar?
Here’s the truth: just because it’s “normal” doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
Job security is a myth when your mental health is falling apart. If your job is draining you dry — mentally, emotionally, even physically — is it really security, or is it a fancy cage?
You don’t have to quit tomorrow. But start thinking bigger. Build a skill. Start a side hustle. Learn something new. Create options — your options.
Security isn’t a job title. It’s knowing you can take care of yourself on your own terms.