“If Salary Wasn’t A Consideration, What Is The Most Attractive Profession?” (30 Answers)

Not everyone has the luxury of choice. Many people have to settle for a profession with a big paycheck because, let's face it, not all attractive jobs can pay our bills, hence the term dream job. "Talking about pursuing a dream career, it's definitely challenging or speculative yet a long-term and satisfactory alternative," Apoorva Kale, an industrial and organizational psychology practitioner, told Bored Panda during an interview.

She said that people generally thrive on two drives, intrinsic and extrinsic. The ones with passion and aspiration for their dream career flourish on intrinsic motivators, while those who believe compensation/benefits are more important to them thrive on extrinsic motivators.

But of course, if we were given a choice where salary didn't matter, who wouldn't want to do something they truly loved that made them happy? However, 57% of Americans favor capitalism. And getting that really sweet paycheck is what many people look forward to at the end of the month, even if they do something they don't want to.

But Apoorva says, "Eventually, working in an environment that doesn’t conform to oneself holistically will always feel draining. So, not pursuing a dream career can adversely affect an individual's mental health."

If you knew that the undesirable 9-5 work that you do every day could impact your mental health, would you still do it? "When you choose a job you don't like, it's mostly about satisfying immediate needs or circumstances and is very short-lived," stressed Apoorva.

She also mentioned that when people continue this way, doing something with no interest that gives them zero satisfaction, they might stagnate and ultimately burn out. And that does sound reasonable, right? Just imagine doing something you dislike every single day for years, phew! Sounds terrifying, doesn't it?

On the other hand, we have to face reality, because money does matter. Other experts suggest that if you can't get your dream job, you can try to find one that closely aligns with your skills, values, and interests. That way, it won't burn you out and at least give you a sense of fulfillment.

Another expert from the University of Pennsylvania says, "There is ALWAYS going to be something you do not like about your job, and that’s okay! It takes years of experience and maybe even bouncing around a little bit to figure out the right fit for you."

So, if you do get your dream job, well and good! But in case you don't, try not to be disheartened. Look for alternatives where you feel you might be the right fit. Who knows, you might end up falling in love with it!

And like these netizens, don't forget to tell us about the work that you would love to do. Just type your heart out in the comments!