Working in the corporate entails a lot more than being a civil servant would in my opinion. Of course you'll get some b*tching and talking behind your backs experiences. Not to mention people who takes glee at pulling you down. It's a dog-eat-dog world out there and for those of you who are still studying and ever eager to jump on the working world bandwagon, I'd say stop and enjoy your young student life to the fullest.
Don't get me wrong, I love being in the work force. It means more independence plus a steady stream of income which as far as this money oriented world is concern is never a bad thing. Generally though, working for the government is a lot more laid back than for private companies and establishments. More often than not, you'll have a whole lot of time on your hands to get your work done and then some. The busiest times are usually when there's an event of sorts coming up. Of course, let's not forget the government exams involved every once in awhile too. I believe benefit-wise, working for the government does have its perks (plus allowances).
In private companies, busy is an understatement. Work load is continuous and expections are high. A lot of what you do requires justifications and reason. Depending on which company you work for, work hours can either be rigid or a lot more flexible. Bear in mind however, you may be expected to work extra hours whenever necessary. A 9 to 5 job might not necessary mean you get to pack up and leave the office at the stroke of 5pm. Certain times, you may have to work later due to stretched meetings or simply to finish up work for the day to avoid accummulating it the following day. As far as benefits goes, it varies from company to company and depends on which level or job position you're at and whether you're a contract or permanent employee.
The thing about working for someone is sometimes you get lucky and get an understanding boss who looks after and stands up for his/her subordinate. Other times, you might not be as fortunate and end up with a boss who (a) enjoys nitpicking your work and finding fault in everything that you do (especially if you're better at your work than he/she is), (b) adamant to know your every move from what you're doing now to what you're going to do the rest of the day (or week) and where you were, are and will be, (c) doesn't bother about your work, hardly around and fails as a support system for the team, (d) wants everything done now and seems to be on a constant PMS-esque state and (e) appears to be helpful (or eager to be helpful) and sing praises or acts all jovial and "nice" in your face but morphs into the I-did-everything-my-team-members-are-such-bums mode sucking up to upper management when you turn your back to them.
With all these funky characters roaming about the offices, some genuine hard workers and good samaritans and them bad apples it just makes you wonder how does one stay motivated to continue to perform well in their respective jobs. Rolling with the punches is easier said than done and when life hits you with more lemons than you can squeeze, making lemonade can be a chore and your enthusiasm and spirit can get shot down in the crossfires. Analogies aside, feeling comfortable in your work place is essential considering you'll spend 7-9 hours a day throughout the week at work.
After 5 long days a week of work, the weekends become extremely precious. Long weekends are a gift. What I miss most when I'm working is not being able to spend as much time with my siblings and family. I see them a few hours a day and sometimes not at all which is sad since we all live in the same house. I barely get to meet up with my friends too but I try to as much as I can. Fortunately there's the phone and Facebook or we'll be completely disconnected. Haha. Don't even get me started on personal time. For me personally, it's almost nil but I do my best to squeeze it in whenever I can. My main things to do to unwind? Staying home watching TV, being on the computer immersing myself in YouTube videos, blogging, editing and reading a book (not to mention chillaxing with my siblings).
I believe the most important thing when you're working is to always find time to get away from it all and just take a vacation. It doesn't have to be far (or overseas although that'll be super!), a trip to a nearby resort for a couple of days, fishing, snorkeling, rock climbing, massages, basically whatever makes you happy.
Happy working everyone!
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