Working for the money

Payday. For me, it is the 7th and the 22nd. So much has changed over the years, especially with automation. Direct Deposit means that my check hits my bank. At times, it even arrives earlier, which is nice. Back 25-30 years ago, payday meant getting a paper check. Then, I scrambled to the bank to cash it. I would write checks for bills and carry cash around in my pocket. Automation has made all of this different. This brings me to a comment I hear frequently: “ You are just doing it for the money, or make sure you don’t do it for the money.”

Let us reframe this statement. Of course, we work for the money. You would be a volunteer if you didn’t work for the money. Volunteering is needed. I volunteer at my church and in the community. I am not paid, nor do I expect to. In my career, I am paid. Being paid means that I can meet my obligations. Rent, car payments, food, and the ability to be generous. Yes, there could be times when working for money can put someone in dangerous situations. At times, even immoral. It is important to not lump in everyday hard work to meet your obligations and impact the lives of others through a career that serves others in that category. So, how do you view the term, Working for the money