Despite the decline in our nation’s economy some American’s are still being picky about what they will and will not do to earn a living.  The question of do you need a job or want a job has plagued many and perplexed me.  During the last few weeks I have been tasked to hire sales representatives throughout the Midwest for a growing marketing company and what I have come across from the countless prospects has truly amazed me.

According the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a “want” is defined as having a strong desire for something. The word   “need” is defined as lack of the means of subsistence. In every arena of life, the two concepts are opposing elements (Merriam-Webster Online).  The question is, in these troubling times does one really have the choice between need and want?  It’s a tough one especially when given the task of doing something on your own first and investing in you.  In this case studying and paying for a health insurance license.

An applicant given the choice to potentially earn 65K for the year in commissions and bonuses, chose to stay home instead and continue to collect his unemployment check as he had for the past seven months.  I asked this former maintenance crew member why and his answer was simple.  “I can collect my unemployment check until May of 2010 so I don’t really want to take a chance.”  So does he need a job or want a job or neither?

An out of work executive in Missouri has 3 kids a mortgage and two car payments.  He “wants” another high paying job, but says he “needs” to take whatever he can to get the bills paid.  He proceeds to order his licensing material and pre-pay his state exam with three loans obtained from friends and family.  He knows his current “need” will help him on his way to fulfilling his financial “wants.”

A car salesman in Illinois “needs” to make more money.  He “wants” a secure job with better hours and benefits. Disillusioned in the belief that any job is secure, he continues to gamble and wait for the job he “wants” instead of taking a job that will satisfy his “need.”    

It doesn’t matter if it’s a commission only sales job or a traditional “safe” cubicle type job everyone’s needs and wants will truly be different.  Based on life experiences so far the choice really is simple.  You need a job to survive and you want one that satisfies your needs.  Best advice, take a job that pays you now and takes care of your “needs.”  It’s okay to leave your family wanting, not “needing,” at least for now.

Robb Beltran is a writer, recruiter, financial consultant, Gulf War Veteran, social media consultant & real estate investor. Robb believes the key to a successful life is education especially when it comes to living healthier and wealthier.  
www.robbbeltran.com
www.belstarfinancial.com