How I Learned to Pretend I Love My Job (While Job Hunting)

Ever try to look excited about a Zoom meeting when you’d rather be anywhere else? That’s me, every Monday morning. I work remotely at a nonprofit in Chicago, handling communications, but lately, my enthusiasm is as real as decaf coffee. After taking a $20,000 pay cut just to keep my mortgage afloat, I’m barely scraping by—and my supervisor (who’s already halfway out the door) says I need to show more leadership. Sure, I’ll contribute more ideas, right after I finish pretending I care about the next newsletter draft. I can’t afford to lose this job, but it doesn’t even cover my bills. So, I’m faking smiles in meetings and replying to emails like I’m on autopilot, all while secretly hunting for something better. Got any tips for acting like you care when you’re just trying to survive? 😅 #CareerStruggles #WorkplaceRealTalk #JobHunting #JobCareer