Desire is a powerful force. It can motivate learning, drive effort, and fuel persistence. But when it comes to employment, simply wanting a job does not automatically mean one deserves it. The distinction between desire and merit is critical in any professional setting, and understanding this gap can lead to better self-awareness, improved preparation, and more realistic expectations.
The Nature of Wanting
Almost everyone has wanted a job at some point—whether for financial security, passion, prestige, or personal growth. Wanting is natural. It reflects aspiration and signals motivation, which are positive traits. But wanting alone is an internal feeling. Employers don’t hire based on feelings; they hire based on fit, value, and readiness.
What Deserving Means
To be deserving of a job means having the qualifications, skills, attitude, and reliability that match the role’s demands. It’s a matter of alignment. Being deserving also involves a demonstrated ability to contribute value, work within a team, and meet expectations. This includes both hard skills (like technical knowledge or certifications) and soft skills (like communication, professionalism, and responsibility).
The Gap Between the Two
This is where many people stumble: confusing strong desire with readiness. You can deeply want a role without being equipped for it. That doesn’t make you unworthy as a person—it simply means there’s more work to be done. This gap can be closed through preparation, experience, mentorship, or skill development. But until then, desire alone does not make someone qualified.
Realistic Examples
Wanting a promotion but not showing leadership in your current role creates a mismatch. Being enthusiastic about a creative position doesn’t count for much if you haven’t built a portfolio or demonstrated creative output. On the other hand, someone who has quietly done the work, built the skills, and consistently added value is often more deserving, even if they are not the loudest voice in the room.
How to Close the Gap
- Assess Honestly: Ask yourself what the job actually requires. Compare that list with your current skill set and behavior. Be honest about the gaps.
- Earn It Daily: Show up on time, go the extra mile, support your team, and stay curious. These daily habits form the groundwork of deserving.
- Ask for Feedback: Get input from supervisors or peers to understand where you are strong and where you fall short. Use that insight to improve.
- Build the Resume You Want: If you’re not ready yet, take the time to build the experience, network, or education you need to truly deserve the role.
Conclusion
There’s nothing wrong with wanting a job. It’s the starting point. But wanting must be followed by action, reflection, and growth. Deserving is not about entitlement—it’s about proof. It’s about the value you bring and the consistency with which you bring it. When desire meets preparation, that’s when you truly become deserving. Until then, let the gap be your motivation, not your frustration.
