I found two part time jobs I didn't like was easier to tolerate than one full time one I hated 😂
Seriously though, I've hated the Mon-Fri grind since watching That's Life on Sunday night before school. I've largely avoided it for the 30years I've worked. I've only done it for 18 soul destroying months in all that time.
Obviously it's going to be different for everyone but here's some of what I've done.
Shift work.
Advantage. 12 hours days and nights. Full time hours compressed into less days suited me. After 8hours at work the day's ruined anyway, what's another 4 hours? 😂Added bonus of a hefty shift allowance to boost the finances.
Disadvantage. Very early starts for day shift and night shift took it's toll eventually.
'Stacking' part time jobs.
Advantage. On a typical day, I did a couple of hours teaching, an admin job in the afternoon and another in the evening. Again, less working days but a full time wage.
Disadvantage. The jobs must be flexible so you can optimise your time. Annual leave with multiple employers can be tricky to line up.
Working from home in lockdown.
Advantage. Sooo much easier than the classroom. I doubled my teaching hours and my income. A lot of stuff stayed online after COVID and I worked exclusively from home after that.
Disadvantage. Not so great when your neighbour is doing extensive DIY and you can't escape the noise.
Of course, the most effective way to avoid the M-F 9-5 torment is to not apply for those jobs in the first place 😁I refused to entertain the idea that it was inescapable. Once it's off the table you'll get creative about how to carve out the work/life balance you want.