Jobs that are almost like family?

[enweto]

I want a job where you work in a team and your group identity and work relationships are an important part of your life. Sounds a bit sad perhaps, and not what some people would want, but it is what I want. I am single and don’t have any close family within 50 miles, I devote my life to work but get little back really.

I used to be a teacher and in many ways that lifestyle fit the bill perfectly - the teamwork and camaraderie and sense of belonging were right for me. However, ultimately the relentless grind of it was just too stressful. I couldn’t keep up, I was falling behind with everything and getting so stressed and burnt out.

I left, and began working for the local authority instead, but the team is pretty soulless and nobody really gives a crap about each other at the end of the day. They all can’t wait to go home to their families at 5, which is great and everything, except my life isn’t like that. I need a more consuming career where the relationships mean something.

I watch TV police and medical dramas, and think that that sort of teamwork environment is where I would flourish, except TV drama isn’t real life is it? And anyway I have no science qualifications so healthcare is out, and as for the Police… well even if I wasn’t a complete wuss, I have got shockingly bad eyesight. And I’m nearly 40.
Another unrealistic career that appeals is an actor, or even the military (where the wussiness and eyesight would be an even worse problem!!)

Anyway. Am I being a bit silly thinking that teamwork and collegial relationships are more intrinsic to some professions, or is it luck of the draw / TV show nonsense (just like not all neighbourhoods are like Ramsey Street) or, can you think of any other careers I could consider where I feel I would get this sense of belonging and identity from my role?

Whilst I agree with some pp that your workplace friendships won't fulfil all your needs, I'd add that a good set of workplace friendships could improve your confidence and open up avenues to other social circles outside work. Good for you and good luck.

As a pp said, law is an industry where the intensity can enhance camaraderie and lots of people enjoy enduring friendships even after they no longer work together. In fact I'd say it's more normal to stay in touch than not, if you are friends with someone.

Yes, I agree with that, we chat at work and you learn about places other people have gone to, hobbies they do, clubs they belong to etc, it can lead to you trying things you would never have thought of.

I went to a creative writing class at my local adult education college. They vary, but this one was lovely - no pressure, no ‘marking’, no rivalry, just gentle group feedback, sharing of ideas and nudging in the right direction. And pub sessions afterwards! 😂 It was one of the most therapeutic things I’ve ever done.

Not sure op but I think the “work as family” trope is something we see on mainly US television, and I’m sorry to be so cynical, but I think it’s encouraged to some extent by the public sector paymasters to make up for not paying a decent wage to people who are working all hours in hazardous conditions. Don’t get me wrong, there is bound to be bonding when you work long hours with people but the reality is not as it is portrayed on the tv.

Op are you an animal lover? If you were to buy a dog, and walk it every day at the same time, you can often meet friends that way and I have found that animals somehow bring other people in to your life. Or join a choir or an amateur theatre or a group who repair stone walls or whatever takes your fancy - but you are looking for activities which have a collective end purpose in mind - not a group where people work on individual projects. Good luck to you.

Quilting is another good collective activity if you are interested in crafts.

Charity is great for this and the salary would be in line with your expectations depending on role obviously.

My SIL is in her 30s and is single, she works a standard office job but also works in a pub behind the bar two evenings a week. She says the extra money is a bonus but the primary reason she does it is to be out of the house and it's a social role where she's constantly talking to people, so it's part of her social life too.

I think volunteering would also fit the bill here if you can't afford a drop in salary but want to feel like you're working towards a goal or for a purpose. Food bank, women's shelter, community groups etc could all feel like you're 'giving back'.

Hospitality. Running a pub where you have locals/ regulars. Running a hotel with live in staff.
similar but different, get involved at your nearest Sivananda centre, as a student and volunteer, and become part of the yoga community, perhaps train as a yoga teacher if you like it.

Have a look at supported living where you'll work closely with your team and develop great bonds with those you support.

If you become a magistrate you work closely in a group of 3 and that has the courtroom/drama feel that you said you were interested in plus working for a common goal

@enweto the security services ?

Thanks for all the ideas, plenty to think about! Like the idea of being a magistrate. Security services made me giggle - is that MI5 and 6? If there’s a role for a technophobic monoglot who can’t win a game of cheat for blushing, then sign me up! 😁

I think smaller organisations provide this. And maybe something cause based like a non profit. I have some really lovely memories of working in non profits. But they have to be small. And avoid any that are founded by the rich if those people are still around in any function, eg as trustees - as they are usually toxic.