Have we become accustomed to hand outs? Do we feel entitled? Typically these are qualities associated with the younger generation, however, it may be cultural or societal.
No one promised us employment or the "right to work", did they? In a changing global economy, it has become every man, woman and child for themselves. Survival of the fittest. And I believe this is a good thing for the majority of lazy Americans.
We need to develop a hunger or sense of passion. We need to earn a living, not have it handed to us on a silver platter.
I am on this rampage because I've been witnessing job seekers who are upset over being denied WIA training dollars (free government grants), angered over the fact that Unemployment Insurance extensions may no longer exist and who only want to participate in FREE professional development opportunities.
Please, where are your survival skills?
When thousands of immigrants rush to enter our country for the opportunity to work and and make money, doesn't it make you wonder? What is it they they see that we don't? They are doing more than just looking for a better life. They are risking it all for a better life. They leave behind their families, friends and community to earn money and perhaps build a new life.
When the pilgrims came to this country, they were hungry and passionate for a better life. They risked it all and left behind the stability of their lives. They became entrepreneurs, providing product and services that their community needed. They weren't looking for handouts. They weren't expecting to be supplied with training on how to farm, how to make candles or be a blacksmith.
Yes, our world is different today. Many jobs do require advanced skills. How do you acquire them? The key is to identify them before you need them. Become hungry or passionate.
And yes, the immigrants and pilgrims had less to lose. What is it that you are afraid of losing?
So before you start complaining about needing a job, ask yourself, am I hungry enough to do what it takes to survive?
Got thoughts? Did I hit a nerve? Please comment.
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
