Americans are dreaming big these days when it comes to their career.
But according to a new survey from MidAmerica Nazarene University, the “American dream” isn’t quite what you’d imagine. It’s actually pretty bizarre. The survey found that most Americans dream of a job where they get 52 days off per year (at least one day a week), the ability to work remotely at least 11 days a month and a full hour for lunch.
Is that so much to ask? Apparently. Only 25% of Americans say they’re actually living out their dreams in their current job.
The survey also said that around 41% of Americans dream of owning their own business, but only if they don’t have to work more than 60 hours per week. Some Americans are willing to keep it more lowkey: 23% dream of a mid-level management role and 18% are fine maintaining an associate role at a decent company.
Men are dreaming of a $444,958 salary while women are only dreaming of $278,637. And don’t forget the benefits! Men say their most important perks are a matched 401k, help with student loans, a gym membership (!!!), office snacks and the ability to work remotely. Women value similar perks, but also ask for a flexible schedule and unlimited vacation time
Most Americans who aren’t already working in their dream industry think a lot about working in the entertainment biz, but it appears that accountants, journalists, engineers, education workers and a few others are relatively happy in their industry.
