How to make a living.

A woman in St. Kitts, making a living.

There are two essential questions which you need to answer when looking for an income.  The first is, "What can you do?" which basically addresses your skillset and the second is, "What are you willing to do?"  In good economic times, there are plenty of jobs.  Chances are there is something to match your abilities with your aspirations.  Times are not always good though, especially in third world countries where education is sparse and poverty dominates. 

Your skillset may not, in these situations, be what is in demand.  I have known people with Master's degrees and Doctorates who have taken jobs far under their level of expertise.  This tends to be especially true for educated legal immigrants that, in spite of their proficiency, have had to take on menial jobs to earn a living.  This is where the second question comes into play.  What are you willing to do?

Essentially, this comes down to work ethic.  Regardless of what you can do, it often comes down to what you are willing to do.  Our North American society has developed a philosophy of immediate gratification.  We want instant success with limited effort.  The truth is that success often means starting small and working your way up.  The great thing about having a good work ethic is that you rarely have to stay within whatever narrow confines you may find yourself in.  You will be noticed, and your ethic and attitude will help you improve your situation.  It takes time, but eventually, success will come your way.

Consider the woman hosting the refreshment bar in the photo I took in St. Kitts.  An impoverished nation with little work, yet she has a job and is earning an income to support herself and her family.  She has made a commitment to be there, to be reliable, and to assist others in the best way she can.  The reward is steady employment in a place where there are few jobs to be had.  The best part though is what is to come; continuing her efforts will certainly help her family, but they may lead onto bigger and better things that would not be available had she not done well here.

Education is important, but a good work ethic will do amazing things for you.  The best though involves both of these together, where abilities and attitude coalesce to maximize potential.  Work hard; learn all you can.  Time will do the rest.

Thanks for reading.   www.ericspix.com