The pain of answering ‘how is work?’

I am faced with a question that so many times leaves me dumbstruck to answer.

It is not the “when will you get married” demand. This time round, it is: “How is work?” Ironically, it carries a lot of disinterest on the consciousness of the person asking.

I usually think to some degree that they simply want to be polite, or just to make conversation! I am troubled with the thoughts of honestly replying with the boring but polite answer “it is good”.

It makes me feel guilty of lying, yet the inquirer expects that very answer. Mind you, no one enjoys being the earful bin for all kinds of unconstructive monstrous stories about your boss/work.

But let’s face it: when has work ever been enjoyable? Maybe after long-wretched search for one, passing through agonising interviews and probations of which you are on pressure. Perhaps, work can also be enjoyable if it is a hobby. Do not get me wrong.

I am appreciative that I have a job to keep me busy and occupy most of my idle time (idleness can also take a toll on your mind, eh!). My job also puts bread on my table. But then, I hate my job with passion.

Sometimes, it feels like some noose around my neck, or like the feeling you get when you are in boarding school. You are always looking forward to holidays, and the December festive season, or at least a getaway weekend.

Both are similar in many ways because you have got to wake up very early. Yet with boarding school, you are sure of an end, but to work, some people hang on until death.

At times, you find yourself stuck – stuck in a job hole, with an annoying boss who keeps extending targets and shifting goalposts. Then it all seems like you are in a rat race to run fast to reach that bonus and be the best in that appraisal. All for what?!

Mbu to buy some piece of land, school fees, and put bread on the table or to increase savings! All these make sense, but what about when the race in never ending? These needs seem insatiable. Man dreams a lot, and when he achieves one goal, he pushes the goalpost further.

So, when my friend asked me how is work, my reply wasn’t same as old. My work is becoming fast boring. I want to do something else; something more interesting.

I am not sure what it is yet, but something… Oba something new! Or, maybe I haven’t found what makes me happy, which is absurd. Or maybe happiness is just a mindset.

But it is confusing to think that some people use work as an escape route from their challenges and problems. Continue running from the problem if work is the solution! Get back to work now. Quickly! Forget my blabber. Remember you have those bills to clear!