Do THIS If You Hate Your Job

Has Adam ever felt stuck in a job, and what did he do about it? What's a good bag to transport tools, and what's the best way to label the individual containers within organizational cases? In this live stream excerpt Adam Savage answers questions from Tested members Projects in Dad's Garage, James The Cyclist, Larry U and charlesm.1638, whom we thank for their support. Join this channel to support Tested and get access to perks, like asking Adam questions during live streams:
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[@tested]

EDC 4 bucket bag: adamsavage.com/products/savage-industries-edc-four-bucket-bag With thanks to Tested members Projects in Dad's Garage, James The Cyclist, Larry U and charlesm.1638 for their support and questions! Join this channel to support Tested and get access to perks, like asking Adam questions during live streams: kzbin.info/door/iDJtJKMICpb9B1qf7qjEOAjoin

[@DEVUNK88]

need to make little name tags that clip on to the lip of the sortimo box inserts..... I tend to make little tags from pieces of index cards that I laminate with clear tape if I need them to last. write on the index card, cut it out and tape it to the lip of the sorter

[@ugetridofit]

what's with the swearing? You're not smart enough to formulate a sentence with using them?

[@ZTTINGS]

Hey Adam, firstly thanks for all your(and your team’s) magnificent content over the years. As a maker trapped in a procrastinators body, you bring me a spiritual release that keeps me sane. With regards to the question on labelling those boxes, it struck me from looking at the construction that the channel which exists for compartment separation is a perfect holder for some kind of 3d printed label. It wouldn’t need to be too tight or rigid, maybe even a flat label with a round pin dropping down to engage in that channel. Anyway, food for thought and again, thanks for being you. I wish I had the opportunity to work for someone like you.

[@johnjingleheimersmith9259]

lmao. Adam, Adam... Adam. Let's be real my dude. I'm sorry, but that bag looks like my cheap re-usable grocery bags. But in some unimaginable way it literally costs $200 bucks. What is it made of, some sort of NASA proprietary hydrophobic silk-steel fibers? That is nonsense, pal. And on top of that it has next to no organizational features aside from places to stick pens/pencils?? Woowwww. Okay look, anyone that is willing to dole out $200 bucks for THAT might as well take the time to look at the VETO Pro Pack, instead. It's double the cost, sure, but it has bout 100X the organizational tool features and huge versatility through their customization add-ons. I guess a "bucket" bag (first time I've ever heard them called that), technically is more adaptable, but you'd be putting a ton of your own work and time to DIY customize it into anything approaching the VETO. I'm sorry, man, but this is just my honest opinion... your bag just seems ludicrous.

[@NatesToolbox]

Wow $430AUD for a basic tool bag is quite nuts, it must be made of something super special and more of a collective piece.

[@PlatypusVomit]

I came in on sunday today and did about 3 hours of work with no one else there. What I realized is I don't hate my job. What I hate is who I work with.

[@bleakautomaton4808]

Valid

[@marysmith2060]

I feel this sentiment. When I work with a select few people work is sweet. With others I can't wait to leave.

[@NamelessOne82]

Been at my job for 8 years now. Learned that I really dislike about 90 percent of the people in my industry. Now I just tell them I don't like people and if there is work that I can do alone, I will gladly do it. They don't want me to quit, so they try to accommodate that for me lol. Doesn't mean I like my job, but not dealing with the people makes it a lot more bearable.

[@zackthebongripper7274]

Too many narcissists.

[@evenfluurrr7659]

Hi, this has of course seriously shocked me. Please meet me in my office tomorrow at 9 so we can discuss this post.

[@gourdbox]

Having a job that sucks is very common and not overall worrisome in the short term. Getting absolutely STUCK is soul crushing and extremely dangerous.

[@aptj5020]

I like this Adam Savage ‘cool dad in the garage’ leadership arc… people need this more than ever. I see it all around me

[@PraxisPeabody]

I am always reminded of a quote. If i knew where i was going, i would already be there. Stay strong everyone.

[@cuthwulf]

I went to school for art on a full scholarship. I got out of school and could not find work. This was before computer graphics, when you lugged around huge physical portfolios. I finally had to get a job in retail and worked my way up for the next 30 years. I now have a comfortable job and take care of my family. All the while, hating every minute of my work and wishing I could drop everything and go back to arts and making stuff with my hands. My advice would be, if I could go back to my former self...do what you like and you will get good at finding work/money. If you do have to take "real jobs", don't let that become your life. Always use it to get back to what drives you. No amount of money in the world is worth looking back and realizing what could've been. People also forget that your skill level diminishes, your sight and muscle control diminishes and one day you could find yourself in a position to go back, and the inability to do what you once loved. That is truly soul crushing. You get one life. Make it your own.

[@rocklerock495]

Sounds like you only go to college to get a job, and not much of making your... passion(?) or skills in art to be useful; Promote your art and perhaps sell your artwork online or own a shop and sell your pieces of art. Something to think about, though it's already too late for that, maybe. I think for anyone who is only looking for jobs, do what's trending or any field that will pay well. Technical college would be best for that, in my opinion, again, if you're ONLY looking for jobs. Otherwise, if you're going to college to study and to pass on your knowledge, that's great. The future needs those people to advance the world and humanity.

[@IanAProPirate]

Well here I am crying right before work. Man, you saying “I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up”is so unbelievably validating and comforting. I’ve been saying that joke for over a decade and feeling like it was just a coping mechanism and deflection because I felt inferior to people who seemed to have drive and a path they want to take. But you, someone who I look up too as a role model, saying it makes me feel like it’s ok to say it or not know what direction to go in. So, thank you. Like, with all my being thank you. You constantly inspire me to be a better human and you validate me in ways I never thought I needed. I appreciate you my guy. I’m glad I get to share this planet with you.

[@doc_sav]

I'm going to be 40 next year and I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up. So far, I've done logistics, tech support, management, network / software operations, software engineering, and being a 911 / police dispatcher. I'm looking to change it up again right now. That doesn't even account for my hobbies and side businesses I am trying to start. I think people like us and Adam get a bad rap. In fact, in American business culture (probably elsewhere too), especially currently, there is no defined place for generalists (for I believe that is what we are). And that is a shame because I guarantee I can learn new things quicker than anyone, I can drop into the middle of crises, keep my cool, and turn things around, and I can work between all kinds of different team silos and bring them all together. I really hate saying all of that because I am highly averse to boasting, but these are just things that I've learned about who I am, and acknowledging that has finally helped me start to be able to sell my skillset to get into roles that fit me well. It's not that we don't know what to be. It's that we don't want to be just one thing. And despite what we've been conditioned to believe, there is nothing wrong with that.

[@rockhopper01]

Quit crying.

[@Volkbrecht]

@@doc_sav The lack of need for generalists doesn't have much to do with business culture, it's a direct consequence of the high-tech world we live in. It's not much use being able to learn quickly. In most relevant situations you have to bring a relatively deep skill set to the table to be of any use.The more complex everything becomes, the more specialised we need to be to be able to contribute. I don't know what the future will bring, but for now, "pick a lane" is more true than it was for our parents and grandparents. Because to get to the level where companies look for generalists, we now have to push through two to three layers of knowledge hierarchy.

[@drewc4204]

I too, am glad to share a planet with Adam Savage

[@Richard0503]

What a nice comment :)

[@andrewarrondo1253]

Father Savage’s sermon this Sunday morning was just what this burnt out soul needed.

[@efpara1768]

I loved my job until a change of management several years ago. I wanted to quit but couldn't due to a unique skill set, bad degree and debt. At that point, I focused on being a husband and father and work just became something to finance those roles. My day started at <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="270">4:30</a>pm. It gets harder as the kids get older since they don't spend as much time with me, but I still look at how I support them as young adults. I still have good days at work occasionally. I suggest getting a hobby too, even though I couldn't due to health issues my kids had at the time.

[@jasonrackawack9369]

I am in a similar place right now....if it helps at all your not alone or the only one life decided to pick on. Hang in there😉👍

[@efpara1768]

@@jasonrackawack9369 absolutely! Hang in there. It was a good reminder on caring too much about things outside of your control. I did take the time to finish my MS in a marketable area, but resolved to stay the course, since I had stability and good benefits. I think too many people hurt themselves in the long run by trying to reacquire the illusion of control as an unplanned reaction to a bad situation. That manager is long gone, but I learned to prioritize my life differently ever since.

[@maxwellbarnhart1375]

What did the new managers change about your job?

[@michaelhockus8208]

interesting outlook, thanks for sharing

[@efpara1768]

@@maxwellbarnhart1375 Did away with my position and others. He ghosted our department and made false accusations in our absence to justify the changes. Although most things reverted after he left a few years ago, the years of disfunction and personnel turnover wiped out all memory of past processes that took a decade to implement. I had energy and optimism the first time around, now I just do my best remind myself that I can't care more about it than the people in charge.

[@BackyardEngineer334]

This will be a highly viewed video based on the title

[@joscpe]

Caught my attention

[@bigred1502]

Oh 100%

[@ryanbrown982]

That is the point of clickbait titles. Good message though.

[@aaronsterling3732]

I'm looking forward to Adam's take on this

[@MaximilianRoof]

😂

[@JoeJaJoeJoe]

My father loved goldsmithing but couldn't get steady work. He got a job making dentures instead, and he was glad to be working with wax moulds and building bespoke personal pieces.

[@mwater_moon2865]

Now they scan your mouth with lidar to send away and 3D print crowns and dentures. The only thing the silicon mold was for, was my temporary crown made from epoxy resin.

[@nerdful1]

yeah, I had a computer customer that did the denture stuff in his home business. I think I got a couple hundred to recap his motherboard before we all learned about the bad caps plague. and save him from a new 35K machine. A couple years later I met him as a cashier in a big box store. His industry evaporated overnight with the new 3d scan and print stuff.

[@gosonegr]

​@@mwater_moon2865yes, but no, you still need someone to make the final casting and small adjustments. In my country, dental prosthetic specialists study for a couple of months with the arts and trade guys, where the goldsmiths and jewel smiths study too

[@eh42]

A past co-worker made a profound statement regarding work vs hobbies. He had interests in both a career in electrical engineering or accounting. He picked accounting because he new he would eventually hate his job, and he did not want to ever hate electrical engineering. So that's his hobby, funded by his accounting career.

[@doc_sav]

I heard something similar years ago that has always stuck with me, which is that your day job is how you fund the work you're passionate about. If that ends up generating some extra income for you, that's just gravy. Easier said than done, I know, but the perspective shift has really changed how I approach both my "career" and the things I love doing.

[@sandeepsharma9833]

This is sort of what I did, I too loved electronics but I decided to study IT at the university, fell in love with that too. Thought I would work on my own projects in my time with the money I make from my job, but thats too far removed from the reality. The jobs from where I am (India) want 200% of me, and I have already been through 3 jobs in my two and half years career, I have been good at work, always appreciated by the managers but the work doesn't feel of any meaning to me. I can do better, If I must dedicate as much of my time as I did at my job, I would rather work on something of more meaning to me, or at least afford a decent lifestyle to me.

[@1TakoyakiStore]

Something to add to the first question in the video is that I've noticed that if I'm content with my job my hobbies suffer, and if I hate my job my hobbies thrive. I say this because if the person has completely exhausted their current skill set and need to aquire a new set of skills, I would recommend staying at your current job while you aquire these skills. There might be exceptions in terms of getting lucky with the right opportunity (such as someone willing to both pay and mentor you in a new job). But for most situations that luxury likely won't be there. I say this because staying at a job you hate will give you incredible motivation to train up your new skill, and it will give you an edge.

[@Richard0503]

This is so well worded and completely true for me at the moment - I hate my job and I am studying penmanship at the moment so I can change one day.

[@Crazy_Diamond_75]

Unless you're really good at the job you hate, so they're always demanding more of your time because you're one of the ones who gets things done.

[@prestvs]

Sometimes you just need to hold on a little longer in a bad job to prepare yourself for a better one, whether it's paying for a course to learn something else, getting a qualification/certificate that allows you to change fields, saving money to buy expensive equipment that you will need in this new job, or even saving money just to be able to support yourself for a few months while you get clients and hits the break even. I did exactly what i said, i did the math on how much money i would need, how long it would take me to get my certificate and how much security money i would need, it took exactly 8 months of work, and every day i got home and i crossed off the calendar with a smile on my face, saying to myself “cool, one less day in that place”. What causes despair and nervousness is wanting to leave work and go to another area without planning, but if you think carefully and create a strategy, your last days in a bad job can even be pleasant.

[@Volkbrecht]

Sometimes it's really just the company, or worse, the team you are working in. In the beginning of my "career" I switched jobs every three, four years. Not because I hated the job, but because I didn't really "feel it", and there were offers that sounded more interesting. When I arrived at the company where I have now been for 14 years I felt right away that this was a much better fit. And I'm not some highly paid specialist, just an ordinary lab-tech. It pays to keep looking. Plus, aquiring expertise in different areas of the same profession has turned out to be quite valuable.

[@erikleorga]

I WAS a Project Manager for a installation and renovation company for about 3 years. It paid decent, but required 150% of ME and I quit because it was going to kill me. A Tested video helped me decide to get out. I have shifted to a corporate desk job, but I have more ambition to make for people somewhere down the road, hopefully sooner rather than later.

[@tested]

!!!!

[@legodragon1999]

Might I ask which industry, specifically? I work as a project manager for a biomass company. Went to school for engineering, but most of my work now has been constant budgeting for other sites’ projects and I feel like my skills and experiences aren’t properly utilized. Plus, budget has been tighter due to warm winters. Pay is good and the company was the only one to follow up after an initial interview, but I lack satisfaction. Would love to learn more from other people, especially those struggling to find work due to lack of experience.

[@erikleorga]

@@legodragon1999 I worked in the garage storage and closet industry. Putting in closets, shelves, cabinets inside of homes. I was the installer, trainer, scheduler, problem solver, warehouse supervisor, product orderer, and installer manager. When the production company was bought, the quality dropped, and the problems went from occasional to every single job - multiples at every job. The owner was pissing away the money, and wasn't charging enough for labor and materials. We went from $2.3m in sales in 2021 being the best year ever and all the bonuses that came from it, to 2022 being $2.4m in sales and we were out of money. I could go into more detail, but I don't want to write a story that long.

[@jasonrackawack9369]

I spent 30ish years working towards being a graphic designer in the printing/sign industry, I was finally making good money working at a high level doing national brands and accounts. During covid I ended up transitioning in the same company over to the construction estimating dept. for the interior design/ retail display part of the business that made the millwork/cabinetry, I actually liked the architectural part of the process, however the place went bankrupt while expecting my first child and I find myself selling auto parts at a car.dealership to survive.....Im pushing 50 and every design job now pays peanuts and wants young kids out of school, the dealership job is soul crushing at times, thanks for the advise on pushing through the B.S. Just reading the othercomments in this community that I am not alone has been helpful. Guess I will follow the battle cry of Gen X to just "Keep on Keeping on" and remember "Life's not fair you gotta deal with it"

[@mgjk]

My wife worked in print for 10 years then pivoted to UX. UX pays creatives as developers, and developers can't take it over easily because the art background and working with product people is not something that can be solved with code. UX is also a leadership role which is more tolerant to GenX. Parts sales has plenty of online presence. You already know the art, branding and marketing, and you know the parts and customers. Just my $.02, paths vary and I think my wife is secretly a nerd.

[@MinxFox]

I'm currently a graphic designer for a garment printing facility that doesn't pay enough and we are experiencing the slowest workload we have ever had. We are slower right now then we get around Christmas time. When the low workload was mentioned to the owner, he simply said, "I guess we will have to shut down". I've been meaning to get a new job for a while but if we close that certainly will force me to move on. Both my husband and I are frustrated with our jobs. We both hate the corporate world and want to do something with our creativity instead of work a mindnumbing desk job. It doesn't help that job opportunities suck in our area but we love living here. We both have no idea what we want to do. As dumb as it might sound, we've been planning to start a comedy KZbin channel as a side business and hopefully that will help launch us in a different direction. I just can't take it anymore. Sometimes I cry looking up at the sky thinking about how beautiful the world is and how I have barely been able to really see any of it.

[@rhythmandblues_alibi]

Just before Covid I started a design degree wanting to go into animation and web design as the type of job I could do from anywhere. Now it feels more and more like the best time to get into design was 30 years ago. A friend of mine who has worked as a graphic designer for ten years gets paid bugger all and works insane amounts of unpaid overtime, it seems like it is just expected because the work is creative and you should feel lucky to have a creative job. I'm wondering if there will even be work for me once I eventually graduate, given the whole AI situation. It's easy to despair and feel like I have wasted my time on an industry without a future 😓

[@joeshmoe7967]

@@MinxFox Serious question: What do they pay for doing graphics for garment printing, in your area? I ask as a guy who screen prints for a living. I always wish I was more skilled in art and design. Have you considered learning to print as a side gig? I have been a 1 man shop for a long time, but make pretty good money.

[@MinxFox]

@@joeshmoe7967 I make $15.00 an hour and I have a BFA degree in graphic design and graduated Magna Cum Laude. I've sorta looked at other print shop artist prices in town but they are all pretty much what I'm making. I'm actually more interested in sublimation printing and our company has a sublimation printer sitting collecting dust. I tried to buy it from them but they wanted too much for it. I've used it a handful of times for personal projects. I made a sublimated mermaid tail on it that I then cut and sewed together. It was pretty awesome. At one point I was interested in screen printing, but if I learn how to screen print here they will force me to do both screen printing and graphic design. This is what happened to my junor graphic designer that quit because he didn't want to be forced to clean screens half the day. I told them I needed him with me all day because he wasn't in here enough to really be helpful. He would come in our office high from all the screen print chemical fumes looking shitty. I would tell him just because the others don't wear a respirator doesn't mean you shouldn't, be sure you demand propper protection, etc. I don't want to be around the chemicals. I'm sure there are cleaner print shops out there that don't use that awful spray adhesive and all sorts of bad stuff. I saw a cool screen print shop on Reddit and was wishing our shop was cool. There is too much drama/negativity and bad managment when it comes to the printers. The screen printers come in late every day and often leave work early too - this is even with more work to be done. They still get weekly bonuses. I'm coming in on time and leaving on time and I'm the only artist so every order has to go through me and I setup and print all the film, etc. I get no recognition. I don't get bonuses. One week I made the company about $700 in art fees in a single day (which is super rare to achive) and my bonus was $25.00. Screen print often gets $100 bonuses. I need a new job. I just don't know what I want to do. How I ended up here is no other graphic design place wanted to consider me because I was fresh out of school with no work experience. Also, the online applying process is the absolute worst. The good thing I can say about my job is they saw me in person, gave me a tour, and hired me that day. It used to be better here but it has gone downhill.

[@Andre-vx4rf]

I used to watch the show when I was a young man, this is the first time I have seen you on a screen since. People assume because someone is on television that they are vastly successful or rich, it is evident in the online age that it is a facade. appreciate the honesty, its what's needed in order to level up oneself.

[@supa_sets8636]

We aren’t even gonna talk about the crap factory jobs some people get stuck with because nothing else is around and the stuff that is pays $10 an hour. This is horrid times

[@handlesrstupid123]

ya industrial sector is always ignored, my office job friends always online while at work getting paid more and able to do stuff on clock while I cant even have ear phones and working mandatory OT...lame

[@blaine6966]

All that's in my small town is factory jobs or fast food and gas stations that's it and it's hog shit.

[@supa_sets8636]

@@blaine6966 same here brother it sucks

[@d3tuned378]

​@@supa_sets8636I'm afraid the people in my country (USA) seem to want liberal or conservative fascism. So much brainwashing against social programs and leftist ideals that could uplift us all. Reagan and McCarthyist brainwashing have destroyed political discourse in this country that could help a lot of people.

[@d3tuned378]

​@@supa_sets8636we really need socialist policies

[@bythelee]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="214">3:34</a> "I still don't know what I want to do when I grow up." Soooo happy to hear that Adam has not grown up yet. Nobody ever should. That's when the joy goes out of life. I have known people that viewed the day job purely as the means to pay the bills for the things they enjoyed (hobbies, travel, holidays, etc). They stomached every grindy day by endlessly reminding themselves that at the end of it, they would be enjoying the fruits of that labor. A photo on the desk of their next "goal" helped them get through it. Not ideal, but it worked for them.

[@MikeTheYokel]

I’ve never really known, I’ve made it up as I’ve gone along as best as i can.

[@davelanciani-dimaensionx]

I'm turning 61 this year, have been involved in Graphic Arts and Prepress for nearly 40 years, and am totally burned out. I need to do something else, and have no idea what to do. I produce music and music video for fun (totally a hobby), and think about maybe pursuing that, but I don't really think it would be a reliable source of income. But I think we all need a change after 10 or so years from anything we do.

[@SleazyDutcham]

I love how perfectly mundane but relatable some of this is 😄the thought process behind how the organizer is labelled e.g. lol

[@Luckdragon2000]

After 20.5 years of the Navy, I can say that they were the best of times, they were the worst of times. What I miss most were the underways and visiting the plethora of absolutely beautiful ports in the Mediterranean Sea. Where I work now is enjoyable, but bland, yet I know I won't find a job that will match the pay or benefits. I retired as a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy after 14 years active duty and 6.5 years in the reserves in spring 2021.

[@mikedytham9996]

Jeez - bland! I know what you mean. I'm counting the days until retirement. I turn up, I do a day and cross it off. Nothing has ever come close to the thrill and enjoyment of being in the Army for 12 years. So I read a lot, I tend my garden, I do crafts, I make things, I draw. I just try to find something that keeps me sane.

[@JoshuaTootell]

Nothing will ever match being underway. I visited over 15 countries with 5 years of sea time in my 10 year career.

[@TheScrubmuffin69]

I've lived in Ohio working jobs all my life. I wish I had joined the military and had someone else pay me to see a bunch of beautiful areas. Must be fucking nice.

[@maniromero881]

Sometimes under unforeseen circumstances you ended up doing a job that was your hobby or something you enjoyed doing and becomes your full time job. I was a FAA Commercial Pilot and Advance Ground Instructor, and right before I finished my Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Technology and Major in Aviation Management, the September 11th 2001 terrorist attack happened and I lost my job and the opportunity to work with Cessna in Wichita, KS. During the time aviation went down, I never expected that a prop making hobby that I started during my free time in college, helped me make some income in the meantime the aviation industry recovered, and all the sudden became my full time job all these years.

[@natas3503]

My problem is I've doing construction work most of my life. After shutting down my business, I found it very hard to find work. "You're overqualified" seems to be the refrain. Which to me says "We don't want to pay you for what you're worth". Now I drive a taxi for very mear fraction of what I used to make. I'm a bit stuck.

[@newbymick1]

What did you do in construction? Could you look at what you know and use it? I started in 1974 as a bricklayer for 20 years, and in that time, I took night school for four years (with a new baby and a mortgage) and got an HNC in building studies. I then worked the next 30 years doing site manager jobs (freelance) and had to take early retirement due to arthritis. I got cancer. I had it taken out and lost a lung in the process. I now make a living as a Building Advice Consultant and Fire door inspector. It pays enough, and I don't intend to stop - when you stop, you die. You have more skills than just driving - use them. Give them back. Become a college lecturer in a skills college. Become a mentor. Take some online courses and bring your knowledge up to date. Look beyond the parallel lines of sight and think broader.

[@aprilgeneric8027]

handiman, construction project manager, inspector - city/county/state and contract hired. building supplier, hail/storm damage inspector for roofing siding company or/estimator for home owners insurance company.

[@j_taylor]

I've been told "you're overqualified" a few times. I now reply "yes, my managers usually call me a high performer." This fits nicely with a question I like to ask when interviewing "what would it take to be a high performing member of this team?" Of course they mean what you say, that they just don't want to pay me what I'm worth, or that they expect me to get quickly bored and leave. I want them to come right out and say so, though. That gives me the opportunity to counter. I like to start the interview, in my introduction, by saying why I'm particularly interested in this company. Maybe I like the industry because it fits my hobby. Maybe the company has a reputation that fits my values (so I tell the relevant value), maybe I've been a customer before. So their company is special and later if they worry I'll just quit, I remind them of our shared passion. I *want* to be there, just compensate me fairly. Likewise, if they don't want to pay me enough, just tell me what they're offering. It's normal to negotiate compensation, they do it every hire. Of course I don't nail every interview, but as I get older this "overqualified" comes up more often, and I worry places will discard me without a chance. These are some ways I try to turn that around to discuss what their ideal candidate would bring. Don't let them sell you short. Good luck out there!

[@robo5013]

@@aprilgeneric8027 Every one of those options you listed other than the first now require a degree. As for handyman work no one wants to pay what it's worth even if you can find steady work doing it.

[@doc_sav]

@@j_taylor Great tip.

[@ian2000]

I work as an electrician and I enjoy it, I feel like I'm contributing to society in a beneficial way. There's a lot of jobs that don't have that sense of importance. I worked as a warehouse picker, that job was monotonous and I felt replaceable every day.

[@AP-ov6se]

Heh, i was in a similar situation. I was a goldsmith for 9 years. I was good at it, but i didn't enjoy it. I quit at the age of 27 and decided to go to uni tor something i enjoy doing. It was a scary jump to make, giving up a career that was stable. Thankfully i have a supportive family and i've never been happier mentally going after something i want to do. If you can, take the jump, it's 1000% worth it.

[@TheScrubmuffin69]

I feel like being a goldsmith from the age of 18 means you have some serious connections.

[@diymechanic1655]

i used to love my job (architectural metal fab) . but as the company has grown, higher end jobs come in, schedule gets tighter, hours get longer, i get more responsibilities. ive grown to hate it, as have most of my coworkers. ive started making excuses to turn down overtime. ive gotten to the point of not needing the money as i have side hustles i enjoy. i try to value my mental health and free time over over my job. my favorite movie quote right now is “how much did they pay you to give up on yours dreams”.

[@mikemoore5263]

I am a lifelong chef, almost 40 now, and still enjoy the act of cooking amazing food, but had to relocate during the pandemic from a very touristy high volume area to a rural town Indiana, I still make a fair livable wage, but really don't get the chance to use all the skills I built in the kitchen for over 20 years and work has become a 9 to 5 as apposed to a passion project due to limited opportunity, but me and my wife baught our first house, and I take a bit of satisfaction out of building a more rounded life, realizing a career is not the only part of life that matters. Still a hard adjustment to make some days, but having goals outside of work seem to really help when I struggle to get that creative outlet I had for so many years in high end restaurants. Sometimes a job just needs to be a job and of you can change focus onto something else it helps, I still cook at home, although not as much as I would like but more as a hobby now.

[@katsinam123]

I have a masters degree in German. I am a city bus driver and I paint and sketch in the morning before work and on the weekends. I have been selling paintings and sketches. I just want to keep on running with it and hopefully leave my job.

[@edsnotgod]

i tried to sketch in germany and was always discouraged from doing so because they say its for losers... unless you do something exotic like wash your hair with toothpaste and support hamas....

[@haydenmammen6079]

Didn’t someone really famous from Germany love to paint and sketch? His name was like Adolph… or something 🤗

[@katsinam123]

@@haydenmammen6079 … if only he had been admitted to art school in Vienna!

[@frequency_vibes7822]

I'm a tattoo artist of 5 years and I'm stepping away from that literally in 3 days, with no clue what's next. Haven't applied anywhere, I'm just so burnt out and need time to myself. I'm very fortunate to be able to take a week or so off to recalibrate and this advice is super helpful for the week. Thank you Adam Edit: to those who want to seem “smart” and say this is a bad idea, I appreciatethe concern, but especially if youre saying it just to seem superior, respectfully, fuck off. You don't know my situation, or what I've done to prepare to be able to take time off. heres some more advice for y'all, believe it or not, when you don't burn professional bridges and you're a good worker, other jobs are happy to re hire you in no time at all. I have multiple past bosses that when I do hit them up, I know they re going to say “take your time off, but come in whenever you're ready and we will get you re hired.”

[@somanyhobbies]

I did that last week. Been at my job for 11 years, literally could not be there another day. Don't have anything lined up either, but I'm optimistic! Stay strong my friend.

[@bmxscape]

if you only have enough money to last 1 week without a job perhaps quitting your job isnt the play

[@tren380]

Your plan is not good in today’s market…

[@frequency_vibes7822]

@@somanyhobbies you got this! Take your time and truly enjoy it for yourself!

[@DocAcher]

Good on ya, man! I hope your next venture fits better!

[@brandonyoung-kemkes1128]

Thank you for validating my decisions. I was worried I might be on the wrong track. Turns out I’m basically already doing what I need to do in order to make this work.

[@Mr.Pinger]

I love sticky dots and tag sale labels for sorting things, can always add a layer of clear tape, packaging or gift wrap tape, to make sure it lasts longer.

[@xibal3405]

Freelancers have a different tolerance in what challenges they can manage on a daily business than us 9 to 5ers. Desk jobs are usually more steady and safe, but less rewarding.

[@VioFax]

Problem cna be that nobody supports or takes "freelancing" seriously. Everyone i know considers "freelancing" a nice way of saying "fun-employed".

[@bleakautomaton4808]

Steady until the people in charge decide you're no longer needed.

[@02SplinterCell02]

I disagree. I feel like desk jobs and 9-5 jobs in general are impossibly challenging due to how steady (BORING) they are

[@Gandhi_Physique]

@@02SplinterCell02 Maybe people are just different. Some people might be able to do that stuff, but me.. man, it is hard to deal with not thinking. I'm still pretty young, but all I know is I need something to use my brain in. Basically, I agree.. boring jobs are the hardest.

[@handlesrstupid123]

more rewarding?

[@glitchout0137]

Adam, you have been a hero to me since i learned who you were as i watched you make a car fly with RATO rockets. But hearing you say what ive said since i was maybe 14 just made my heart skip a beat. "I still dont know what i want to be when i grow up", i say that at least once a week. I was so touched to hear you say that. Made me proud to even share 1% brain function with you. Thanks for a lifetime of wonder and curiosity. Peace and love my friend. ❤ -Glitch

[@charlietighe]

Great advice from Adam about thinking what other industries could utilize your skillset. I was a freelance sci fi prop maker for years. When the jobs became scarce, I pitched myself to a high end interior design firm, offering them the ability to 3D model rooms, 3D print scale models, scan antiques in order to reproduce them… And it worked and I ended up working at the firm for years.

[@okoniewski2j]

I love what i do but unfortunately i don't have any personal time, which is starting to get to me... i want to experiment, work on my car, invent and try new things. Glad this popped up in my notifications.

[@jeffherald8542]

Tool transport suggestion, I use a 5 gallon bucket with a tool sleeve that can go around the top. It's big enough to handle a lot of larger tools, and the tool holding sleeve has slots and pockets for hand tools. I got mine at Home Depot, but others make it also. It's great for loading and carrying what is needed for a project. The cost is low too.

[@johnmoore1798]

Thinking about how to better your life or the lives of others is the best type of prayer. Thank you

[@turdferguson2537]

Adam you are the smartest person alive. Thank you so much for what you do. To be able to have a conversation with you...

[@pyroslev]

I'm nearly 37, With two Bachelor's Degrees related to Computer Science that is working as a Commercial HVAC Technician who's doing more project management. I don't know what I wanna do yet but my partner in life is an OBGYN. When she goes into her full time job post residency, she's stated I can quit my job and do what I want after our dream house is built. I've got 18 Months to figure that out.

[@TOMMY-WANT-WINGY]

Shit. Mine makes 60 bucks a day. Enjoy that brother

[@calebwhiteknives]

As a craftsman and freelancer I’ve struggled with this for years! After 15 years of making knives and cutlery, but barely making the bills most of the time, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that not all avenues are gonna work long term. No matter how much you love it.

[@peterbrownwastaken]

Good advice Adam. I've been doing the side gig thing for 10 years. It's not easy but I find it rewarding. I like health care and retirement but it's a soul sucking job somedays and the shop helps recharge me.

[@Cassinblanca]

The architecture boat tour in Chicago is awesome. You get to see the city from a unique perspective while the guide narrates the history, style, and impact of each building.

[@ChaseThePinballWizard]

Remember. You don't hate your job, you who you work for, and with.

[@iandeare1]

I trained as a classically trained Luthier, and Brass Musical Instrument Technician, I hold professional memberships, and I worked for the biggest UK manufacturer (no longer trading) - it never paid me enough, but enough to live! Freelance - never paid me enough to live! I ended up as a specialist Electro-mechanical NHS hospital engineer, with a daily six hour commute by public transport (nine hours during the Covid-19 pandemic) until I got too sick to work, and actually collapsed at my bench... Now, aged 61, capital exhausted, almost at the point of losing my home (and still sick, but not sick enough*) I'm applying for anything including P/T cleaning jobs, in order to eat! PS my father was a Watchmaker to trade, a Policeman for a living, like me; his passion didn't pay! *Long Covid is still not universally, or officially recognised in the UK

[@truthbomb4775]

I advocate for always having three sources of income, one main and two side hustles. Sometimes the side hustle becomes the main thing.

[@SneakyDingo]

thank you very much Adam, the insight you give at the start of this is truly inspirational and great advice - thank you

[@JonHallv2]

All this reminds of James Victore's burning questions. A very similar format, and for a designer like myself, it was a great resource for inspiration and personal growth. Keep it up

[@Kitzy]

I don’t even consider myself someone who is “into” architecture, but the Chicago architecture boat tours are absolutely delightful.

[@newbymick1]

Adam, you have just given the same advice that I gave to my three kids, who are all grown up and living their own lives, about doing a job that they don't give a shit about and are unhappy. Nothing lands in your lap, though - you have to work at it, and the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it. Don't expect anyone to do things for you if you are not going to give back more. Be the best you can be; if you don't know something, ask and learn. Never turn away education, especially if it is given freely. If you make a mistake, learn from it. 27 days from retirement - but I'm not counting.

[@all1soul]

Actually that's not true. A lot of people get things handed to them and they land right in their lap. Just not you or me.

[@jamesj6597]

@@all1soul Names. I want names.

[@kilerone]

1st time commenter on any video I think but long time fan and I appreciate your work. Just wanted to say I love your view of " I don't know what I want to be when I grow up". Still as a non commissioned officer with 14 years of service in the military, I have felt this way since I was young. Things can change, situations can change but I will continue to move forward and grow. However that may look like.

[@10whatsmyname01]

I have been frustrated working retail for a while because i love the service part of my job and i love coaching and developing my team but the company i work for does not care about providing good service to our customers or developing our people. I recently learned that my skillset would probably transfer over to being a librarian and that job would not only be more fulfilling to me but also pay more and with far better benefit.

[@InsaneManiac]

Always love your work. Great advice.

[@EcomCarl]

Adam offers valuable insights on navigating career transitions and finding fulfillment in work. His advice to explore other industries and treat job searching as a dedicated endeavor resonates deeply with those seeking new opportunities. 💼

[@shawnart101]

Adam I love you man youve inspired me through my life to do what I do an thankyou for being you!

[@JustPlainRob]

I quit my job when I felt this way. It sounds extreme, but it was the right call. I just quit one day and lived off savings for half a year. Then I found a similar job that was more fun and paid better and went back to work. It pays enough I can save up for a few years and finally afford to make some life changes that drastically reduce my expenses and increase my freedom.

[@doc_sav]

That sounds amazing. I haven't really been able to build up enough savings to do that, but one day, that would be the dream.

[@davidgarcia8782]

I went from indifference to hate, to panic attacks to the calm clear water of utter no fs given.

[@hiddenname9809]

It's the stages of work grief. I'm at the "calm clear water of utter no fs given". I practice meditation, be in silence after work. This clears my head and realize that I can work but I can let go of expectations. I do my best but whatever happens happens. I will be okay, no matter what.

[@choklatchipmuffinz7539]

Adam! Love your stuff man! You’re the best!

[@microbuilder]

After 20+ years of going from one job to the next because I didnt like it, I finally decided to work for myself doing the things I enjoy. I definitely make MUCH less money, but at least I'm happy.

[@joeshmoe7967]

I could have stayed at my job, and retired 5 years ago, but I hated it. I left and have been self employed for the last 25 years. Way way less financially stable, but happier.

[@danopreadesign]

20 years ago, I used to work as an assembly person. Soul crushing job, and degraded by management and engineers. I used that shame and anger as motivation to go.to school, studied architecture, got my undergraduate and graduate degree on my own(massive loans). I'm now working as an architect; sometimes its rewarding, sometimes its a lot of work and poor compensation for the amount of school. And my debt has definitely held me back from starting a business and give more back to the community. The point I'm trying to make is, find the courage to change, but know that even the most amazing job sometimes sucks. So is life. Hope this helps someone

[@hebjenogbanane]

Hey Adam! Loving the content as always. Just something I've been doing for a while now in terms of labelling: liquid Typex + marker gives you the opportunity to create a background for your lettering when labelling random coloured containers. You do need to wait until the typex is fully dried (approx 5 minutes) before going over it with a marker. Although you can paint typex on basically anything, it probably won't be the most durable. At least it gives you some more visual reference and a more uniform appeal when scanning through labeled stuff. I use it primarily to mark my tools and toolboxes. You could also go the other way around by blacking out a frame with the marker and then applying the lettering with the typex. Makes for some cool options if you're into handwriting!

[@CMald]

I love you Adam Savage. Thank you. 😊

[@wompastompa3692]

My job salts me up most days, but the friends I have there make it all okay.

[@loganmedia1142]

I know a few people who ended up doing what they loved as their job. They inevitably ended up hating what they did, because most of the time real work is not that exciting. Their advice is always to keep what you love as your hobby or a side job that you do when the work is interesting. Unfortunately for many people freelance just means instability and begging for work. They're totally screwed if there is a major lull in opportunities paying enough. End up stressed about losing their home, having to pull their children out of school, etc. What I'd prefer to be doing would never pay enough. So I do something I know how to do that pays well enough. It's not exciting and I'd retire right now, switching to doing what I enjoy, if I had the money.

[@nickrivera2391]

For James The Cyclist, I highly recommend looking into Veto Pro Pac, especially for transporting hand tools. They have a whole line of bags and backpacks, including some rolling variations. I think they’re originally marketed for the HVAC industry, but I’ve used a couple of theirs for years as a coffee equipment technician.

[@layzeemi98swagger41]

Man this hits me very hard cuz this is literally the same situation n job ....... Man goldsmith is a very under appreciated job

[@RodrigoBarbosaBR]

I was always in STEM. Electronics, then IT. I was good at it, and made good money. I hated it. I saved enough money, went to law school, and today I'm very happy as a lawyer and law school teacher. I never believed in being happy in our work. Always imagined it was just another "trick" to make people stomach jobs they hate. Now, I do. I love each moment I spend in class, teaching. I love every moment I'm in court, fighting. I love every new legal book, every philosophy and sociology book I buy and read. It wasn't easy. I'm still not 100% free of IT, but today 90% of my work is legal. The catch is, I was able to save money, which I know is not an option to most people. But my point is that you can shift gradually. It doesn't need to be like flipping a switch.

[@MinxFox]

Very awesome story thanks for sharing! It is very inspiring!

[@davedelany2116]

Ive had so many terrible jobs that i count down the hours till i can leave, eventually I can't stand it and leave then go to another horrible job 🙄 at 43 ive given up the search i just do my work to the best of my ability then go home an focus on my hobbies, Ibelieve only a fortunate few get to do what they love and the rest of us just have to learn to suck it up and do what we have to do. But having a hobby you love and goals to look forward too definitely make it easier to fight through another day.

[@dodorichard]

I adore your honesty and experience, please NEVER change. Many times I have been where you talked about.

[@ast3663]

wow, very powerful, Adam, thanks for these insights

[@raygunsforronnie847]

It's one thing to have a job for which you have little or no passion, it's another to actively hate what you do / for whom you do it / who you do it with. Unhappiness to that degree will affect one's mental health and often causes the worker to inflict the internalized unhappiness on their families and friends.

[@DoriDoesVoices]

Love the raw and practical nature of this video content. Finally making steps toward my dream of having my own art/entertainment business and I dunno what it is, but this gave me a lil encouragement! I was a little coy about subscribing just because I knew you from Mythbusters (I adored you work on the show but I didn't know if there would be quality content because TV personalities have had YT channels and were NOT good at it), but this seems like a great place to find some inspiration for anyone wanting to blaze a creative path for themselves. I apologize for doubting you, sir! Keep up the amazing work!

[@heliank6905]

For labeling the bins would try a label from a labeling machine, with a coat of clear nail polish. Many places I've worked used something called Edge Sealant to protect labels and markings from fuel, grease, hydrophilic fluid etc.. but one place I worked used clear nail polish, and it worked better and was way cheaper.

[@ozarkpipertony8396]

What do you call a gentleman whose role or current job is sharing his skills to bring joy to the lives of other people? I think that's Mr. Savage. Thank you sir for sharing your giftedness.

[@chimpana]

Guru. Or maybe Cult Leader!

[@GaigeGrosskreutzGunClub]

Raconteur?

[@paithos5156]

I love the stand you made for your phone.

[@patrickdiehl6813]

A Brother P-touch is very handy for labeling bins and storage containers.

[@jojo-bu2sy]

you're very wise adam these are great videos

[@nerfherder4284]

This is timely....15 min before work ✌🏻

[@piergaay]

Some great and true advice here!

[@lexlopez15]

i was a freelancer for almost 20 yrs in the film and tv news industry and during and after the pandemic i lost all my steady gigs. (most of which I stopped enjoying ages ago anyway)..i lasted an entire year without work to the point that i had to sell my 2 bedroom condo last month...fortunately, i mangaged to sell it before having to foreclose on it and now it is very refreshing to not to have to depend on working for someone to do what i really want to do. i'm meeting with a financial advisor tomorrow to find ways to better allocate my new funds and plan to do some traveling before the end of the year...however, i would like to start my own business or invest in some startups...it's scary to think of having to start over this late in life and go in a different direction from what you know but it's also rather exciting to open yourself up to all the possibilities you didn't have or see before.

[@Snugglez187]

I have absolutely hated my job for almost 20 years. Every day when I put my gear on for work, it feels like it weighs a thousand pounds. I could never stand the unpredictability of doing freelance work, though. I just decided years ago that I would rather have stability than happiness, and that's been my life. Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do to survive. 🤷‍♂️

[@loganmedia1142]

Freelancing doesn't make people happy. The people I know who do it are on a constant treadmill of trying to find their next project and getting desperate if it doesn't come quickly enough. Wit freelance people also still have a boss - it's whoever is hiring and paying them. Often worse than the boss in a salaried job.

[@DEVUNK88]

Klein tools among others makes great backpacks for tools if you would rather carry the tool weight on your back or get a a rolly cart packout system you can roll behind you if you have lots of heavy tools to move

[@camerondoyle4337]

I have a background in mathematics and decided to pursue a career in tech ending up in various software and data engineering jobs over the last 7 years. In the beginning, I was quite happy to sit at my desk and generate code for whatever task needed to be done. Eventually, after about 3 years of doing that all the spark and flare was gone and it was almost entirely replaced by sitting in pointless meetings all day while listening to middle management pontificate about other things that were largely meaningless. I found filling the void with many hobbies helped a lot, while also focusing on everything outside of work with work being the absolute lowest rung of importance in my life. I worked at various companies over those 7 years and only recently I've decided to leave the field entirely and pursue what I was originally going to do upon leaving high school - become an electrician! Anyway, for me simply making an effort to work towards that thing I always wanted to do has done wonders for my intrinsic motivation and outlook on life.

[@BeefyTacoCS]

A good labeling solution for your storage case would be to 3d print hinged doors/labels that can be flipped up when accessing the compartment in use. It would either be a full door to hold parts in place, or just a small hinge to stick a label on. This would allow you to see more clearly what is inside through the case itself while also allowing the same finger space for accessing the slots.

[@joeholm4591]

Have done Chicago architecture tour, was great. Try the speed boat tour of Lake Michigan if you get the chance. Maybe next sortimo batch, include a white textured band at the top of boxes to take ink/writing.

[@corychecketts]

I love the Speedmaster! Looks great.

[@MilMike]

as an introvert, I hate my job because I have to deal with my coworkers... I love my job when I can work alone, but distractions like constant meetings are killing me slowly...

[@JoDaddysGarage]

As a youtube creator, I have enjoyed what I do restoring cars. What I haven't enjoyed is the grind of trying to make youtube happy. Ultimately I feel youtube is taking advantage of all of us. I will still create videos, but I will do it on my terms now. My joy is more important than making money for youtube.

[@umami1]

I aspire to be this man when I'm this age. Always loved your vids!

[@Trashed20659]

CUP LABELS: If you haven't tried it yet you might use Brother P-Touch labels which resist water and oils more than paper.

[@K_LCollectibles_Games]

What I'm passionate about and good at unfortunately have never translated into a living or even side job. I've always had an eye for photography, short-form writing, mostly film reviews and playing guitar and writing my own music. Sadly all I do is work hard at jobs I don't enjoy. Thanks for the inspirational video Adam.

[@FounderOf4]

This will be a highly viewed video based on Adam's trusted personality and where most viewers are in life and this current market/economy.

[@blanebeats8647]

Finding Adam's channel has significantly brightened my day

[@yesnickcarter]

holy crap, i always liked him. but this conversation was next level. awesome.

[@robvandenbrink9006]

Thanks so much for the mention of atlas obscura - we’re planning a vacation and found some cool stuff to do along the way (and some new ones close to home) Also as always appreciate the plug for a freelance lifestyle, I (gradually) made that jump 7-8 years ago and haven’t regretted it for a second since!

[@MROC66]

I love this guy.

[@DracoOmnia]

I got my 48th state (which was Florida) in 2017 or so at 28 y/o, 49th (AK) two years ago thanks to wife's continuing medical education on a cruise ship. Hawaii is the last one, haven't been able to find a road there yet...😅

[@DogWithHangover]

Yeah, those bucket bags are awesome!

[@Nozick667]

It's hard to change in a society that doesn't support change. I'm in my forties and I'm back at uni to get an education so I can start a new career, a more creative one. That's only possible because I live in a coutry where education is free.

[@unknownclub033]

My girlfriend got a dymo old school label maker and uses it for everything. You can get different color tapes to emboss if you'd like to color code and whatnot! Tape is strong but removable!