Photo by Antonino Visalli on Unsplash
When the working day is done, we all just wanna have fun, right?
But what if you didn’t have to wait until 5:00 to have a good time?
We know it may be hard to believe, but there are so many fun jobs out there for you!
How to Find a Job That Is Fun for You: A Four-Step Process
Some of us find fun in different places.
Some of us find unmatched joy in reorganizing a giant pantry full of junk—and there are definitely organization jobs that would fill those of us to the top.
Some of us love to shop, dress up, and help our friends curate looks for a first date. After you call us to consult on our back-to-work looks, you might find a position as a stylist or a buyer to be extremely fulfilling and fun.
Step 1: Make a List of Hobbies, Passions, and Interests That Make You Feel Happy
What activities make you smile, laugh, and feel most fulfilled?
When looking for an enjoyable job, it’s important to start with the basics. Consider what types of activities make you feel happy, including activities you currently do in your free time or those you enjoyed during your childhood.
Here a few ideas to get started:
- Planning parties + hosting
- Shopping
- Reading + writing
- Grammar + spelling (you've never met a "you're" or a "their" you couldn't place correctly)
- Cleaning + organizing
- Being outdoors
- Teaching new skills + learning new skills
Step 2: Identify Your Intrinsic Strengths and Most Valuable Skills
What are you naturally good at or what unique skills have you developed over time?
While determining what activities make you happy is an important first step, you also need to consider what you are skilled at in order to excel at work.
If you’re having a hard time identifying your greatest strengths, you’re not alone. Take a personality test, enlist the help of a career coach, ask your boss/coworkers/loved ones, or reflect on previous performance reviews.
In addition to personality tests and career coaching, there are many other ways to identify your strengths and unique skills. Try volunteering in different roles to see where your natural talents lie, or take on new challenges at work to discover hidden abilities.
It's also important to note that your strengths can evolve over time as you gain new experiences and develop new skills. By understanding your strengths and applying them to your work, you'll be able to find the correct "fun job" for you.
Step 3: Create Your List of Must-Haves in a Full-Time Job, Part-Time Job, or Career
What aspects of a job are non-negotiable for you?
Whether you’re looking for a fun job, side gig, or career, you need to consider options that are realistic for you. Your list of must-haves is unique to you and is always subject to change over time.
It’s important to recognize that what is non-negotiable for you will depend on your current life circumstances, career goals, and personal values. Some people may prioritize salary and job security, while others may prioritize work-life balance and a positive company culture.
Identifying your non-negotiables can help you avoid wasting time and energy on job opportunities that ultimately won’t be a good fit. Take some time to reflect on what matters most to you and use it as a guide as you navigate your job search.
It’s also worth noting that non-negotiables can change over time as your priorities shift, so be sure to reassess periodically to ensure that you’re still on track to finding a job that meets your needs.
Some examples of must-haves can include:
- Salary
- Benefits
- Flexible work options
- Opportunity to travel
- The proximity of work to home
- Work-life balance
- Connection to company mission or core values
Step 4: Brainstorm a List of Opportunities That Connect the Dots
What jobs combine your interests and skills AND meet your must-have criteria? The most fun jobs must be interesting, match your skillset, and meet your needs.
Pro Tip: Need some help figuring out how to match your love of reptiles to an actual job? Here's a tip. Type your skill or strength into your favorite search engine + "job opportunities" to see what pops up.
There's probably a position you never even knew existed.
And by the way, exploring different industries and career paths through informational interviews, internships, and job shadowing can provide valuable insights and help you make more informed decisions. Networking with professionals in your desired field can also open doors to exciting job opportunities. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and consider unconventional career paths that align with your passions and strengths.
Remember, the most fulfilling and fun jobs are often the ones that allow you to use your natural abilities and interests to make a positive impact on the world around you.
37 Fun Jobs to Match What You Love
Here is a list of 37 fun jobs for people with various interests, skills, and must-haves.
From professional video game player to food styling, there's a job out there for everyone. So don't settle for a job that doesn't excite you—explore the options and find a fulfilling career that matches what you love.
It’s time to discover the right job for you!
If You Love Working Outside
We have a few ideas for you if your goal is to work outdoors. If you dream of bringing your indoor job outside, we also have few tips on working outdoors without burning a hole in your computer. From park rangers to working with furry friends, the options are diverse.
*National Average Salaries pulled from Glassdoor, 2023.
Park Ranger
National Average Salary: $40,137/year
Fun Factor: Help protect our state and national parks, spend your day surrounded by beautiful nature and scenery, and stay active. If you love hiking and visiting parks, this could be your dream job.
Dog Walker
National Average Salary: $32,201/year
Fun Factor: Meet new people on walks, create your own schedule/hours, and get some steps in. Bonus: pet cute dogs.
Zookeeper
National Average Salary: $43,610/year
Fun Factor: Work with animals, educate the public, and stay active. Cute animals are always a plus.
Marine Biologist
National Average Salary: $51,132/year
Fun Factor: Explore and study the mysteries of the ocean and its inhabitants, from tiny plankton to massive whales. With the potential to conduct research all around the world, you can travel to beautiful locations and experience the wonder of the ocean firsthand.
Conservation Scientist
National Average Salary: $69,498/year
Fun Factor: Work on preserving and protecting natural resources, discovering new species, and developing strategies to conserve and manage wildlife habitats.
Want more outdoor jobs? We have 15 outdoor jobs that you might love.
If You Love Helping People
If your passion is helping people, we need more of you. Those who find joy in helping others are the heartbeat of everything good in the world.
Whether you're a natural caretaker, an empath, or simply love lending a hand, there are plenty of job opportunities for those who love helping people. Start making a difference in the world today with the following jobs.
Art Therapist/Music Therapist
National Average Salary: $63,992/year
Fun Factor: Help individuals improve their mental health and well-being. Facilitate the art therapy process, guide individuals in exploring their emotions and experiences through art, and witness the transformative effects that art can have on their lives.
Librarian
National Average Salary: $52,514/year
Fun Factor: Explore your love of research and books, help others expand their knowledge, and enjoy a quiet and relaxing work environment.
Professional Mentor
National Average Salary: $45,747/year
Fun Factor: Make a positive impact on someone's life by sharing your knowledge and experience to help them achieve their goals. See the growth and development of your mentee, build meaningful relationships, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in someone's life.
If You Love Talking to People
Hey there, you extrovert you! If you derive energy from talking to others, learning about their lives, and helping people to get through tough moments or enjoy beautiful moments, we have some ideas.
These jobs offer the opportunity to engage with people on a daily basis and create meaningful connections that can last a lifetime. With your social skills and outgoing personality, you're sure to thrive in one of these roles!
Bartender
National Average Salary: $37,746/year (+ tips!)
Fun Factor: Meet and have conversations with a variety of people, enjoy a fast-paced work environment, learn how to make classic drinks/cocktails, learn about different beer styles and breweries, and cash in on tips.
Event Planner
National Average Salary: $47,075/year
Fun Factor: Work with many different stakeholders, explore venues and vendors, develop creative problem-solving skills, and make a vision come to life.
Tour Guide
National Average Salary: $36,985/year
Fun Factor: Share your passion for history, culture, and travel with others and create memorable experiences. Meet people from all over the world, learn about their cultures and perspectives, and showcase the beauty and uniqueness of your own community or destination.
Resort Manager
National Average Salary: $62,598/year
Fun Factor: Create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for guests, providing them with exceptional experiences and fun activities. Oversee the day-to-day operations of a beautiful resort property and have the satisfaction of ensuring that your guests have the time of their lives.
If You Love Staying Active
If your idea of fun is waking up before the sun to get in ten miles, you might find these physical jobs fun. We'll be sleeping in over here, though.
Personal Trainer
National Average Salary: $51,741/year
Fun Factor: Motivate others to achieve their goals, exercise as part of your job, enjoy a healthier career, and work in various locations.
Fitness Instructor
National Average Salary: $50,120/year
Fun Factor: Make your own hours/schedule, share your passion for health and fitness with others, and lead a class doing what you love (e.g., yoga, dance, cardio, weight training, surfing, skiing).
Sports Coach
National Average Salary: $46,194/year
Fun Factor: Inspire and motivate athletes to reach their full potential, both on and off the field. Build strong relationships with your team, develop their skills and strategies, and experience the thrill of victory and the satisfaction of helping athletes achieve their goals.
If You Love Expressing Your Creativity
If you're a natural-born creative, then you need to get your creativity out into the world. There are many options for creatives, and here are just a few!
Photographer
National Average Salary: $41,223/year
Fun Factor: Photograph others’ special occasions (e.g., family photo shoots, weddings, graduation photos, baby photos), enjoy a flexible and self-determined schedule, and hone your photography skills.
Social Media Manager
National Average Salary: $47,757/year
Fun Factor: Create creative content, engage an online community, and gain experience in various social media platforms.
Fashion Designer
National Average Salary: $53,671/year
Fun Factor: Use your creativity and artistic talent to design clothing and accessories that are both beautiful and functional. Express your unique style and vision, work with a variety of fabrics and materials, and see your designs come to life on the runway and in the world.
If You Love Creating New Styles and Spaces
If your style stops people on the streets, it might be time to take your talent to the back—with a fun job based in style. Here are a few ideas.
Wardrobe/Fashion Stylist
National Average Salary: $45,619/year
Fun Factor: Help others discover their style, stay up to date on new trends, and enjoy a variety of locations for work.
Real Estate Flipper
National Average Salary: $79,317/year
Fun Factor: See a project all the way through, make a quick profit, and give an old home a new “lease” on life through renovations.
Set Designer
National Average Salary: $45,094/year
Fun Factor: Bring stories and characters to life through set design. Create immersive environments and atmospheres for film, television, theater, and other forms of entertainment, and see your designs come to life on screen or stage.
If You Love Traveling
Love to travel, explore cultures, meet new people, and hit repeat? These travel jobs are the perfect jobs for the adventurers.
Travel Blogger
National Average Salary: $51,249/year
Fun Factor: Make money while traveling the world, meet new people, and explore new locations and activities.
Flight Attendant
National Average Salary: $58,247/year
Fun Factor: Get discounts on airfare, experience a flexible schedule, and travel the world.
Travel Nurse
National Average Salary: $100,006/year
Fun Factor: Move to multiple cities for varying lengths of time, help a greater number of patients, and experience benefits such as free housing and travel reimbursements.
Cruise Director
National Average Salary: $56,154/year
Fun Factor: Ensure that passengers have an unforgettable experience on their vacation. Organize and lead a variety of onboard activities and events, interact with passengers from all over the world, and travel to exotic destinations while working aboard a luxurious cruise ship.
If You Love Technology
If you have a passion for the newest gadgets and gear, technology may be the career path for you.
Professional Video Game Player
National Average Salary: $42,987/year
Fun Factor: Compete at the highest levels of gameplay and showcase your skills to a global audience. Travel to tournaments and events around the world, meet and compete against other top players, and potentially earn a lucrative income from playing the games you love.
Graphic Designer
National Average Salary: $46,693/year
Fun Factor: Use your creativity to design visually appealing and impactful graphics that convey a message or tell a story. Work on a wide range of projects, from branding and marketing campaigns to website and app design. Explore different styles and techniques to produce stunning visuals that leave a lasting impression.
Ethical Hacker
National Average Salary: $88,780/year
Fun Factor: Use your technical skills and problem-solving abilities to identify and prevent cyber attacks on computer systems and networks. Use your creativity and ingenuity to outsmart attackers and protect valuable information. It's a thrilling and rewarding career for computer science aficionados who are passionate about technology and security.
If You Love Food
Need we say more? If you love to cook, eat, or taste the following professions may be for you.
Chef
National Average Salary: $38,812/year
Fun Factor: Craft delicious dishes that delight the senses. Experiment with different flavors and techniques, and constantly challenge yourself to create new and exciting dishes that keep customers or clients coming back for more.
Sommelier
National Average Salary: $62,971/year
Fun Factor: Taste and learn about a wide range of wines, travel to vineyards and wineries around the world, connect with winemakers, and help create unforgettable dining experiences for wine lovers.
Food Stylist
National Average Salary: $60,447/year
Fun Factor: Use your artistic eye and culinary skills to make food look as appealing as possible for photography and video shoots. Use your skills in color theory, texture, and composition to make dishes look beautiful and delicious.
Food Scientist
National Average Salary: $53,807/year
Fun Factor: Research and develop new foods and flavors, and create innovative and delicious products that people love. Explore the chemistry and biology of food, and just generally geek out about taste.
If You Love Working With Kids
Love working with kids, but also love being able to clock out at the end of a day? We see you.
If you have a passion for helping shape young minds, there are plenty of fun and rewarding jobs that will allow you to do just that. Whether you want to work in a classroom, summer camp, or toy company, there are endless opportunities to inspire and support children's development. So if you love working with kids, get ready to bring out your inner child and make a difference in their lives.
Here are a few fun jobs that allow you to finger paint, run around, and get creative with the kiddos!
Professional Au Pair
National Average Salary: $38,357/year
Fun Factor: Spend time with kids, become a part of a local family, learn more about another culture, and live with a host family for free in exchange for childcare.
English (Or Other Subject) Teacher
National Average Salary: $48,529/year
Fun Factor: Build meaningful connections with multicultural students, improve your foreign language skills, and travel abroad.
Toy Designer
National Average Salary: $41,101/year
Fun Factor: Use your imagination and creativity to design toys that inspire and delight children. See your designs come to life as physical products that bring joy to kids all over the world.
Camp Counselor
National Average Salary: $32,509/year
Fun Factor: Lead activities, encourage team-building and personal growth, and be a positive role model for campers, all while enjoying the great outdoors and making lifelong friends and connections with your fellow counselors.
