Stop Running on That Economic Hamster Wheel
Most people are on a never-ending treadmill, chasing the almighty dollar, obsessed with getting to that next promotion, that next paycheck. They’re stuck in what I like to call the “economic hamster wheel.” And here’s the thing — it’s not entirely their fault. Society, our education system, our parents, everyone’s been whispering in our ears since we were kids: “Make money. Be successful. Rinse and repeat.”
But they forget to tell us why. Why are we doing this? What’s the bigger purpose? That’s the million-dollar question.
Now, the problem is that we’re wired to seek comfort, safety, and short-term rewards. That’s how our ancestors survived in the wild. It’s easier to focus on what’s right in front of us — the next paycheck, the next fancy gadget — than to contemplate the bigger picture. It’s a form of mental myopia, a lack of vision. People are so engrossed in the immediacy of survival, they forget to live.
But let’s take a step back. This isn’t about rejecting the pursuit of wealth or success. It’s about balance. It’s about understanding that your career isn’t just a means to an end. It’s a journey, a vessel for personal growth, a vehicle for making a difference.
You see, when you find your “Why”, your purpose, your direction, your career stops being just about the paychecks or promotions. It becomes a mission. It becomes a vocation. It becomes part of your identity.
So why are so many people unable to find their “Why”? Because it’s bloody hard. It’s not like finding a needle in a haystack. It’s like building a needle from scratch using only a vague description of what a needle is supposed to look like. It requires deep introspection, self-awareness, and courage. It’s a journey that many people, sadly, don’t embark on.
We need to change the conversation. Instead of asking kids what they want to be when they grow up, we should ask them what problems they want to solve. Instead of pushing students to choose majors based on earning potential, we should encourage them to pursue areas that ignite their curiosity. Instead of obsessing over quarterly profits, we should focus on creating long-term value.
That’s the shift we need. That’s how we turn from a society of paycheck chasers to a society of purpose-driven individuals. And believe me, the latter is not only more fulfilling, but it’s also more productive, more innovative, and ultimately, more prosperous.
So, stop running on that economic hamster wheel. Step back. Reflect. Ask yourself, “Why am I doing this?” Then, and only then, will you begin to see the bigger picture.
