What’s your dream job?
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting Practical Homesteading!
Most chase dream jobs like unicorns—elusive, shiny, and always just out of reach. Turns out, mine was hiding in plain sight: my home office, flexible deadlines, and a career that fuels both family and purpose.
Right now, I work as an environmental professional from home. I set my own hours, within reason—I still need to respond to emails promptly, deliver quality work on time, and show up for meetings. But between those responsibilities, there is space. Space to step away for ten minutes to start dinner. Space to take my kids to a doctor’s appointment without begging for time off. Space to grab an early lunch from a reliable stand-up desk (affiliate link) setup like mine, keeping energy steady without back strain .
Financially, this job allows me to both support my family and save aggressively for retirement. That combination—being present for my family in the day-to-day while also planning for their future—feels like a rare gift. I am not choosing between meaningful work and stability; I have both. The paycheck is not just about bills, but about building a cushion that will give us options and freedom later .
The work itself matters deeply to me. I am in a discipline I care about, doing environmental work that has a tangible impact on the world around me. My efforts contribute, even modestly, to healthier ecosystems and communities. That sense of purpose changes how Monday mornings feel. I am not just logging in to pass the time; I am showing up for something bigger than myself .
Is it perfect every single day? Of course not. There are stressful deadlines, long meetings, and moments where the balance tips and I feel stretched thin. But when I step back and look at the full picture—the flexibility, the trust, the financial stability, the meaningful work, and the ability to weave my family life into my workday—I realize something important.
For all intents and purposes, I already have my dream job.
Feature photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash
The views from this post are my own.
What’s one “dream” perk you already live? Share below—let’s celebrate the wins we’re missing in the chase .
Loved this reality check? Like if you’re living a hidden dream job, share with your WFH crew, subscribe for more family+career real talk! What’s your “unicorn” perk? Drop it below 👇 .
Related Posts
From Nerves to Connection: Lessons from a Lifetime of Public Speaking
Have you ever performed on stage or given a speech? My heartbeat quickened as the announcer called my name, each syllable echoing through the microphone. Applause filled the conference hall as I walked toward the podium, my shoes tapping softly against the floor. The room smelled faintly of coffee and stale donuts—a familiar comfort for…
Keep reading
Unmuted: Laughing Together at Last
I never expected to feel this nervous just walking into a donut shop. The bell above the door chimed softly, and I paused—heart rattling, palms damp against my blue Yeti water bottle. The air was thick with sugar and dough, but I wasn’t here for pastries. I was listening for a voice I’d only ever…
Keep reading
How Teams + Chickens Power My Work-from-Home Mom Life
From mute-button saves during baby meltdowns to chicken-run resets after tough calls, here’s how online tools + homestead wisdom keep my virtual career and family thriving. Working mom life, unfiltered.
Keep reading
Practical Homesteading 
Leave a comment