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I have multiple jobs. I don’t think I can afford to drop any of them, but I feel like I’m being pulled in different directions. What can I do?

Having several ‘gig’ jobs is becoming the new “normal” for many people, but this doesn’t make it any easier. It can feel as if you’re always working and still not doing enough. People around you might not understand what you’re going through, especially if they only notice what you’re not doing.

It can be hard to find the extra energy needed to pause and imagine if and how things can be different. Yet if you don’t, you’ll continue to run from one thing to another without reflecting on whether and how you’re truly using the gifts that God has given you. You also risk neglecting or even alienating the people God has called you to care for. You will likely need help from others to evaluate how all you’re doing fits with your vocation. You’ll need help and creativity to rearrange your schedule so you have time to rest and connect with others. Such sabbath times might need to switch week-to-week depending on your schedule, but if you don’t plan for them, you’re likely to default to working until you’re exhausted. Making others aware of the challenges you’re facing will help you keep those times of rest and allow them to understand that you’re not as available as you’d like to be.

As part of imagining how things might be different, it would be wise to pray and talk with others about possible ways you could save money and be able to work less. You might explore different housing or transportation options, or reach out to others about preparing meals together. You might want to ask for help with applying for a different position or asking for a raise.

This hard season is an opportunity to grow in wisdom about how to follow God with your whole life and not just your job. Even if you get a full-time job that pays all the bills, you will still be pulled in many directions. Family, friends, church, and community are all part of your vocation. Your efforts now to pause and ask how God is calling you to use your gifts and to learn healthy ways to prevent work from taking over your life will continue to help you in the future.