One of the most important lessons you need to learn as an adult is that work isn’t everything. It’s so easy to graduate college and become consumed by the need to rise up the ranks in your career, become obsessed with a job you think needs to be your entire life, that you can lose sight of some of the things that really matter. And you can lose the people you love in the process.
I refuse to be one of those corporate drones. I love my career, but I want to be able to live my life and be with my loved ones. That’s why I recently took a job with a much longer commute, so I can spend more time with my podcasts.
I realized this was something I needed to do last year. Comedy Bang Bang turned 8 in May, and I just… missed it. I wasn’t there for it. The guilt kept me awake at night for weeks. I vowed to never let work come between life ever again after that.
Sure, it’s a job with lower pay, but if you get too invested in the details you’ll drive yourself insane. I don’t want that. I want to be able to spend evenings with My Brother, My Brother and Me again, and to go back to having dinner with my Doughboys.
Related: If I Don’t Get on ‘Last Podcast on the Left’ then What’d I Kill All Those Kids For?
I’ve had this new job for a few months now, and I don’t regret my decision one bit. I’m so much happier and more content, and I’m rebuilding relationships I once thought were unsalvageable. Now that I’m back to two Chapo Trap Houses a week, I’m more aware of politics and Soundcloud rappers than ever!
My family has noticed an immediate difference, and my wife couldn’t be more appreciative. More time spent listening to my podcasts, after all, means less time for talking to her about them. I can’t recommend it enough. Don’t be scared. Take the leap, and make a decision that will benefit your personal life instead of your work life, and keep a part of your soul intact.
Plus, it means less time with your friends who keep telling you about Hello From the Magic Tavern. I WILL GET TO IT. Jesus Christ.
Written by Steve Fiorillo @steve_fiorillo
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