High-Paying Jobs That Don't Require Intelligence or Education: Are They Worth It?

The notion that schools should prepare you for a trade is relatively new. Historically, vocations were learned under the watchful eyes of family members, business owners, or factory managers. Schools focused on teaching literacy and values like religion and manners. The vocational aspect began to emerge in the latter part of the 19th century, with religious institutions recognizing that keeping young men occupied with legitimate work was more effective than criminal activities.

Today, the primary function of schools has shifted to vocational training, which businesses have seized as an opportunity to offload their responsibility for training workers onto the government. However, schools often fall short in providing job-ready training because the nature of jobs is continually evolving.

Why Would Anyone Work at Any Job?

Living in a capitalist economy means that wise individuals are capitalists. This concept introduces the idea of choosing a job not just for the salary, but also for the experience and the personal development it offers. Moreover, some jobs offer unique benefits, such as recession-proof stability.

Stoicism and the Jobs of Life

Stoicism is a philosophical approach that teaches us to find contentment in simple things and to face challenges with resilience. A famous stoic philosopher, Marcus Aurelius, an Emperor of Rome, also taught this philosophy. He might have spoken with a New York-born Italian accent, which is a fascinating thought. Marcus's first stoic saying, "The stoic is the bird that brings the babies," is both a simple and profound statement about life and its essential processes.

High-Paying Jobs That Require Little Education or Intelligence

Jobs that do not require intelligence or advanced education and still offer high salaries exist, and these positions can be worth pursuing for both financial and experiential benefits. Examples include delivery drivers, security guards, and data entry operators. However, it's important to consider that these jobs often lack growth opportunities and may have slower salary growth.

One such job that stands out is garbage pickup. This role can pay between $80,000 to $100,000 annually, with excellent benefits, and requires only a driver's license. This job is particularly recession-proof due to its essential nature. It’s a high-paying, physically demanding role that can provide a stable and satisfying career for those seeking a high salary in a low-stakes environment.

Conclusion

While high-paying jobs from the above categories may not require advanced intelligence or extensive education, they do demand dedication, physical stamina, and a commitment to the job's demands. These positions can be rewarding in various ways, such as financial stability, job security, and personal growth. For those seeking a stable income and the benefits of a well-paid occupation, these jobs can be worth pursuing.

Ultimately, the choice of a job should be based on one's personal goals and circumstances. While these high-paying jobs may not offer the same level of intellectual challenge or educational opportunities, they can be instrumental in providing financial security and a sense of purpose.