you're at the mercy of the market. Some trivial professions are grossly overpaid, while many other beneficial professions are grossly underpaid. Some professions have tons of demand, while others have very limited demand. It doesn't mean don't get that degree and don't aspire to that role, but don't be shocked if the job isn't there, and don't be shocked if it pays less than you hoped. You must create value Nobody owes you anything. Just because you have a degree doesn't mean someone is required to give you a job. You must demonstrate you can create value for people, or else they'll find another person or method to get things done. You must be adaptable. Technology makes it easier for companies to get more work done with fewer people. When this happens, jobs that were once essential become replaceable. If I make a living putting plastic things on the ends of shoe laces, and someone invents a machine that automates the process, and I subsequently lose my job, my company isn't evil. My company is maximizing shareholder value by creating efficiencies. Increasingly, the people who stick around are those who learn how to adapt. They don't lament when they sense the ground shifting beneath their feet. They learn new skills, figure out how to leverage the new tools or take advantage of the new realities. And, when the writing is on the wall and their days are truly numbered, they formulate a plan for landing on their feet. You must