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People are so hypnotized by our deeply flawed political, economic, social and cultural systems that they think it’s the only way to be.
Teachers are interested in teaching young people so they can have more fulfilling lives. Scientists are energized by the prospect of unlocking the secrets of Nature. Actors are really interested in acting and the arts — even if they aren’t rich and famous stars.
These careers were NOT the 2nd choices of people who simply couldn’t cut it as hedge fund managers. Imagine this: none of them wanted to be hedge fund managers. They actually are more interested in other things than maximizing their personal wealth.
Now, that said, our society forces people to struggle and the most interesting and truly valuable professions generally pay humble, often inadequate salaries. So, out of frustration and a need to meet expenses, these people often try to leave the professions they love and acquire positions that pay more money.
But money, in this case, is just a consolation prize for sacrificing what’s personally fulfilling in exchange for staying out of debt.
Inner Rewards vs. Societal Pressure
Now, many people are obsessed with money. Many of us NEED to be because, by design, employers…
