I used to have a “dream job”. At least, that’s how many people saw it. It was a highly desirable government position that included a guaranteed retirement and a lifetime medical plan. It was also nearly impossible to get fired.
But I was miserable every day. As soon as I clocked into work, all my energy—and in turn, all my desire for life—faded away.
Instead, I thought about my side business. For a few years, I’d been running an auto shop in my home garage. I specialized in repairing and modifying classic cars. At one point, I hung up a print (照片) of my favorite automotive shop as a source of inspiration. I knew the owner’s story well: He has a tight work schedule, but his work ethic, artistry, and authenticity never falter(衰退).
In 2019, one of my clients offered me an actual industrial space to run my shop. I was nervous to say yes. Could I really expand my business and keep my government job? Was it wise to give up something with so much security?
Then it dawned on me: The “dream job” had a guaranteed retirement plan for people who work there for 30 years—but after 30 year, would elderly me look back and regret not seizing the opportunity to do things on my own terms? I had my answer.
In 2020, I left the dream job to run my business full time. In 2021, I somehow kept the business afloat, and we moved into a shop that’s double the size. That’s when I realized that my print was still hanging up back at my “first” garage. I thought about how much that print meant to me back then, and how it deserved a place of prominence(杰出) at my new location.
It is now proudly displayed in my humble shop, along with a banner given to me by the owner of the store that I like. It serves as a reminder to hold myself to the same ethos as he—tireless work ethic, ever-evolving artistry, and genuine authenticity. Frankly, this path has not been easy. Since starting my own business, never in my life have I been so tired, frustrated, or anxious. But I live on my own terms and love every second of life.
4. How did the author probably feel about his “dream job”?
A.Fairly painful. | B.Rather busy. |
C.A bit regretful. | D.Very enjoyable. |
5. Why did the author mention his favorite automotive shop owner in Paragraph 3?
A.He helped the author expand his shop. |
B.He encouraged the author to work hard. |
C.He always worked according to his schedule. |
D.He was an inspiration for the author to own a shop. |
6. What did the author mean by his answer?
A.He would refuse to accept the owner’s offer. |
B.He would give up his dream job in the end. |
C.He would value the print offered by the owner. |
D.He would keep a strong desire for his dream job. |
7. What message does the author seem to convey in the text?
A.All hard work will pay off. |
B.We should respect our heart. |
C.There is no shortcut to success. |
D.Opportunity is for the prepared. |