13th November 2012, 12:11 AM
Personally I think a career begins with the offer of a permanent job. I have had 32 years in archaeology nearly always with permanent work, however never with a permanent position. I wouldn't be as foolish as to try and kid myself that 32 years of work in the same trade constitutes a career, because I have never enjoyed any of the perks that a 'career' offers. I was bothered about that once but now recognise that is probably as good as it gets....
Of course there have been some bad days, but I can't recall a day when I haven't been motivated to get back out there and have another crack at it. Of course I am more likely to sympathise with Dino's view, belonging to the pre-PPG generation. At least some of the motivation of those left from that dwindling group (those still alive or whom I am still in touch with), is to have a life AND still to work with or be associated with archaeology. And sometimes we do things for our friends and to follow our interest that maybe happen outside of 9-5...but again to my mind that's about having a life and nothing to do with a 'career'. And for the record I gave up the machismo bit long long ago....well, long before Trowelfodder started singing affectionate songs towards me during tea-breaks anyway.....
Of course there have been some bad days, but I can't recall a day when I haven't been motivated to get back out there and have another crack at it. Of course I am more likely to sympathise with Dino's view, belonging to the pre-PPG generation. At least some of the motivation of those left from that dwindling group (those still alive or whom I am still in touch with), is to have a life AND still to work with or be associated with archaeology. And sometimes we do things for our friends and to follow our interest that maybe happen outside of 9-5...but again to my mind that's about having a life and nothing to do with a 'career'. And for the record I gave up the machismo bit long long ago....well, long before Trowelfodder started singing affectionate songs towards me during tea-breaks anyway.....
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...