Blue Collar vs. White Collar Work: Which is Better?

I don’t enjoy pitting different work styles against each other.

However, careers are a significant part of our lives, and we must choose a path.

There’s no staying in the middle forever.

So, here’s my take:

• Blue Collar vs. White Collar.

Believe it or not, I’ve done blue-collar work before.

I’m not someone speaking from the sidelines.

I used to work in an energy plant, operating heavy machinery.

Steel-toe boots, burning 3,400 calories a day, and chatting with the guys after a hard day’s work.

I’ve lived that life.

Even before that, I worked hands-on in the restaurant and fast-food industries.

While fast food isn’t the same as blue-collar work, it still gave me firsthand insight into what it’s like to labor on your feet.

The Perks of Blue-Collar Work

Blue-collar work is practical.

You don’t need years of education or tons of student debt to start.

I remember the smartest “engineer” I worked with wasn’t technically an engineer.

He was an electrician who completed an apprenticeship and learned on the job.

Ironically, he was better than many degree-holding engineers because he had hands-on experience and practical knowledge.

Blue-collar work allows you to see the immediate impact of your efforts.

There’s a rush of satisfaction in creating something tangible and seeing it come to life.

The Perks of White-Collar Work

On the other hand, white-collar jobs often allow you to make more money with less physical effort.

I’ve seen people in white-collar roles who hardly seemed to work yet pulled in six-figure salaries.

One guy I knew made $200,000 a year, and his primary responsibility was sending emails questioning why teams weren’t meeting deadlines.

Then he’d head home.

This may seem unfair, but it’s a perk.

With a white-collar job, you can use your extra time and energy to build a side hustle or invest in personal growth.

Blue Collar vs. White Collar: My Take

I have a lot of respect for blue-collar workers.

They put in the effort, get their hands dirty, and keep the world running.

But if I had a son, I’d tell him to aim for a white-collar career.

Here’s why:

1. Financial Growth: White-collar work often provides better earning potential without relying on overtime.
2. Longevity: Blue-collar work is physically demanding, and over time, it can take a toll on the body. Injuries are common, and recovery can be slow.
3. Flexibility: White-collar roles allow for building side hustles or rising up the corporate ladder without burning out.

During my time in blue-collar work, I netted about $2,500 net per month.

In a white-collar role, I was making that in a week and a half, with way less physical effort.

Is The Grass Always Greener?

Nowadays, I see people in cushy white-collar jobs idealizing blue-collar work, thinking it’s more rewarding or authentic.

But blue-collar workers often warn them:

“My life as a blue-collar worker isn’t easy. My back is shot, and injuries are part of the job. You may like the idea of working with your hands until you face the reality of it.”

Blue-collar workers dreaming of white-collar roles often transition successfully.

For instance, construction workers can move into site management, earning more while mentoring new workers.

If you’re a 20-year-old reading this, my advice is:

1. Get an engineering degree or similar qualification.
2. Start in a white-collar role, use your earnings wisely, and invest in a side hustle.

Blue-collar work is essential and honorable, but it’s not the best fit for those with big career ambitions.

For more insights into career & mindset, check out Level Up Mentality

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– ArmaniTalks