Rewarding Performance

A thought came to me today - a thought about the ratio of work to pay.  For me, that ratio has reached an absolute minimum.

And why are so many people so incapable of even the simplest tasks?  That's right, the educational system.  People leaving our schools lack fundamental skills that prepare them for the real world.   Not surprising, since today's school curriculum focuses on passing standardized tests while completely ignoring the need to teach critical thinking skills.

Many people bemoan the state of our educational system.  However, I have come to realize that we, at least those of us who are capable of teaching ourselves, should be celebrating.  Without a dysfunctional educational system, how could we hope to command such a work to pay ratio?

What would happen if our educational system became functional and produced rational, thinking individuals? We would have a tidal wave of people who could do the jobs that need to be done, increasing the supply of skilled workers and decreasing the demand (salaries) for skilled work. 

The fact is, I find my job easy.  So easy that sometimes I want to scream at the walls.  But at the same time, 90% of people stemming from our educational system would not be able to perform my job function. 
 

I know a lot of teachers.  You know the old adage:  "Those who can, do.  Those who can't . . . . teach."  It now seems they are self-replicating, passing their "vast" knowledge of the real world on to their students.

Think back - it may be harder for some of you than others.  Did your teachers seem like smart people to you?  If so, enjoy digging that ditch or flipping that burger.  If not, I'm guessing you get the picture.  And let's be honest, can you really call a person with an education in education educated?  What did they teach you, how to learn?  How people learn.  Apparently they left out the part about failure being the best teacher.

So, a big thanks to all the teachers as they prepare to take the summer off.  You've earned it.  By performing so poorly that somehow, even a shred of knowledge can pay such vast returns.

So enjoy your summer off, and think about doing an even worse job next year in your "noble" profession.  I don't want my kids to have any competition.