A practice I would like to see end: when a person asks "what do you do?" I answer "I don't". This confuses many but it is the right answer and true because I currently have no employment and the question is directed towards one's job, art or line of work practiced. If you doubt this, next time when your asked that question ask back 'you mean what is my job, right?', and if they say "not so" you say "yes so, because nobody ever asks a working person in uniform that question."
There was a time in my past when that question triggered a quick response of my professional title in a well known company. Everybody usually would seem impressed by it and I would be made to feel that I was someone 'a cut above the average'. However, I never wanted to believe this.
Solving problems on a daily basis at work did little to make me feel that who I was got determined by what I did or who I am is determined by what I do. I have always felt that who I am is a being, not a human doing. To judge someone's worth according to employment status or position clearly invites the wrong impression and is a dis-service to self.
So why is that question of 'what do you do?' usually the next thing people ask right after getting a name? The question often proceeds any inquiries into a person's marital status or living arrangement even. I believe it is because what we say about ourselves tells them more than what they can see for themselves, sadly.
So why do most people answer that question with a job? Do they really believe their job defines them?
We all have a role to play in the performance of life but it is wise to follow the words of Spencer Tracy who said only good actors don't look like they are acting.
Therefore, next time you are asked that question you might say "I would show you if you could tell me why I should?" Well, maybe nicer to say "what exactly would you like to know about me?"
To afford a rich life one should take an allowance of self over work. We should at least be able to afford others this same view. Besides, we all do the same thing anyways; beauty's attraction for a mate or a meal, in one way or another. That works.
Good fashion is in the style, not in the doing.
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