Why is it often so challenging to explain our jobs to our parents? Is it truly that complex, or might it be that we don’t fully grasp our own roles? I believe that most corporate jobs, about 90%, are actually quite straightforward—they're just adapted to contemporary ways of working. The corporate world does love its jargon, which, while sometimes necessary for precision, often complicates simple concepts unnecessarily.
If you really want to help your parents understand what you do, start with the broader context. Explain that every company, whether it deals with products or services, is actually running some kind of business. From there, you can narrow down to describe what you specifically do within that framework. This approach not only helps your parents understand your work but can also clarify your own understanding of your role.
I hold the conviction that if parents truly grasp what their children do professionally, they might offer insights that seem irrelevant at first but can prove invaluable. Parents know you well—integrating their understanding of your daily work could lead to useful, unexpected advice. Additionally, this understanding might adjust any misconceptions they have about the significance or demand of your job, which is particularly common among Indian parents who might believe their children are engaged in extraordinarily important tasks.
Incorporating family into discussions about your career does more than just inform them—it helps to strengthen your bond. In today's world, where our jobs significantly shape our lifestyles, including family in this aspect of our lives is essential. While it might seem like a lot of effort to explain your job to family, it’s ultimately about connecting with your loved ones, making it well worth the effort.