Hi there! I’m Kaylee, a 28-year-old from East Johannesburg, South Africa, and I’d like to take a moment to paint a picture for you.
Although I studied for a degree, the impact of COVID-19 made me question whether I made the right life choice especially with the tourism industry crashing. I craved stability but often felt I missed out on a lot. I followed the ‘set path’ I had mapped out for myself. Soon, I got caught in the rat race, as many of us do. I was stuck in a monotonous job, daily routine, and cycle.
I used to think that, to pay the bills and find happiness, I needed to land the perfect, high-paying office job. The kind everyone seemed to chase. This often meant working in a cubicle with horrible fluorescent lighting and simply making peace with the hand I’d been dealt. However, everything changed when I stumbled upon Job Duck while scrolling through job advertisements.
Flash forward three years, and I’m happier than ever! My life, mindset, and daily routine have transformed completely. To top it all off, I’ve met incredible people along the way. I realized that my previous life choices had value; they paved the way for my current success.
Self-Care, Hobbies, and More… Hobbies!
For starters, I now have more free time to continue some of my hobbies and even pick up new ones. I no longer spend four or more hours commuting. I have time to tackle my ever-growing To-Be-Read pile.
I’ve found an exercise routine that suits me, rather than forcing myself into the 5 AM gym culture. Plus, I’ve picked up a new hobby I love—archery! My biggest challenge now is juggling all the hobbies I’ve accumulated. Oops!
What Matters the Most
Working remotely has also strengthened my family and close relationships. I now have more energy to spend with those nearest and dearest to me. Additionally, with the time difference, I get to spend most of my mornings creating a routine for myself outside of work, and of course, spend some time with my furbabies!
Moreover, I feel more focused at work, as I’m no longer distracted by office shenanigans. Remote work has taught me a lot about self-discipline and setting boundaries. To top it off, the people I’ve met and work closely with hold a special place in my life. I’ve learned so much from each of them!
The Journey So Far
I didn’t have high hopes when I joined Job Duck in 2021. Desperate to escape my situation, I feared the process would lead to another dead end. But I was SO wrong!
I still can’t believe I work remotely, which has always been a dream of mine. Job Duck has given me the freedom I’ve always wanted, and I’ve had the opportunity to experience various roles and grow my knowledge in the best possible way.
People here are always willing to share and teach; no one gatekeeps information that could benefit someone else or help them grow. It’s incredible! Honestly, don’t knock remote work until you try it, but make sure you have the right company and team because that’s where the magic happens.
Thank You, Job Duck!
I’m so grateful for the balance that Job Duck has brought to my life. Thanks to the people I work with, I’m constantly learning and growing. I can take time off to travel, explore, and even rest without feeling guilty.
Coming from harsh work environments, I know that nothing is ever perfect, but Job Duck has challenged my perspective in the best way possible. I’ve realized there’s more to life than just work and no play. My furbabies would agree!
