I came across this really amusing yet informative ad campaign done by a German organization when surfing the web. It really reminded me of the many grade twelves who are applying for their post-secondary education – especially of those who feel pressured by their parents’ demands. No, there are not only three jobs in the world; if everyone was a doctor, lawyer or engineer, I’d say society will never function properly, let alone deal with all its citizens running savage, swinging their stethoscope, book of criminal codes, or steel beam ridiculously. And no, I am not encouraging everyone to dig out their long-lost pitchforks and organize a rebellion either. I believe, though, it is very important to make your choice accordingly; make your choice wisely, because, really, life is too short for any regrets.
“No, there are not only three jobs in the world; if everyone was a doctor, lawyer or engineer, I’d say society will never function properly, let alone deal with all its citizens running savage, swinging their stethoscope, book of criminal codes, or steel beam ridiculously.”
Yeah, it’s this attitude (Well, one of many 🙂 that drives me round the twist. The world needs far more than doctors, lawyers or engineers. Just because you don’t aspire to be one of those three doesn’t make you a waster and if you don’t happen to be capable of becoming one of the three, that doesn’t make you a cretin. I am in no way capable of becoming a doctor, lawyer or engineer, but anyone trying to take me for a fool is going to have a bit of a rude awakening. Yes, those three jobs are challenging. Yes, those three jobs are worthwhile. Yes, those three jobs will make a difference to the world. And there are plenty of challenging, worthwhile jobs that make a difference too.
That rant aside, I love these ads. 🙂 You don’t have this picture, but my favourite is the one of the guy in the cigarette machine. I know the look on his face so well, it’s that “Holding back on this sarcastic remark is KILLING me” look. 🙂 I love the petrol pump one too, you just know that he’s chalked up quite a few disciplinaries, probably for swearing at the customers.
Life really is too short for the wrong job. I’m not saying that everyone is entitled to the perfect job, not least of all because the perfect job doesn’t exist. The graduate jobs market is tough and compromise is necessary. But “imperfect” is one thing and “wrong” is another thing entirely. No-one should ever have to settle for abject misery.