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National Skilled Trades Day 2024

Welcome to May and let’s kick it off with National Skilled Trades Day because houses, bridges and factories don’t get built by interpretive dance.

Looks Too Much Like Work…

In a very general way, our society has fallen out of love with the skilled trades. Part of the problem is a myriad of myths and misperceptions that surround the jobs themselves, but the biggest cause is our stubborn belief that a four-year degree is the best path for the most people. ~Mike Rowe

I’ve tried doing jobs of this sort. It’s not in my wheelhouse.

As a guy with ten thumbs, I discovered a need for a no-hands all-brain job.

Fortunately, I grew up at the dawn of the personal computer. Programming and data work I can do.

Wrenches, screwdrivers, saws and so forth? I technically can, but most people can do it quicker and better.

And that’s what it’s all about. Work is a value exchange. I bring value by beating keys.

Other people bring value by doing stuff I can’t do (or can’t do well) in exchange for the money I make doing what I do well.

Try Something Else

National Skilled Trades Day

If you haven’t found the thing you’re good at, check out some options. The playlist above has a variety of videos about useful skills that pay well.

Go to CareerLink or find a career coach to help you find some options that might work for you.

Found My Trade

Writers don’t retire. I will always be a writer. ~Andy Rooney

Ultimately, I’ve known all along what my calling in life is. I’ve always been a storyteller, a worldbuilder, a creator. I always will be.

Sadly, I’m still stalled in my creative endeavors. More’s the pity since writing tends to relax me.

Big difference between relaxation and exhaustion. I’ve got more than my fair share of the latter at the moment.

That’s all for today. I hope you’re having a productive week.