There are certain jobs that universally are known for their
high-stress work environments -- military personnel, police officers,
firefighters and doctors to name a few. Then there are those jobs that
on the surface may not seem as demanding, but are in fact filled with
stressful experiences. Here are six of those jobs, the reasons why they
made the list and why they're still worth pursuing.
1. Editor
Why it will stress you out:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of editors is
expected to experience little or no change from 2010 to 2020. As online
media grow and traditional newsrooms continue to shrink, editors will
deal with more pressure and increasing workloads. Plus, working under
tight deadlines and being responsible for the accuracy of published
content can be stressful.
Why it's worth it: Some
people flourish when working under pressure. Plus, as a journalist, and
someone who appreciates the written word, it's gratifying to publish
work that is read and enjoyed by the public. If you're able to adapt to
online media and are comfortable using digital tools, you'll have an
advantage in the competitive job market.
Average annual pay: $60,490
Why it will stress you out:
While it may seem like a glamorous job, the role of event coordinator
can be highly stressful. You're responsible for handling the logistics
and execution of events for clients some of whom may be difficult to
work with or demanding. If anything goes wrong, it's on your shoulders.
No wonder it made CareerCast's list of the 10 most stressful jobs of 2012.
Why it's worth it: No
two days are the same, and you're not constricted to a cubicle. Plus,
it's exciting to see someone's vision come to life, and fulfilling to
receive kudos from happy clients.
Average annual pay: $49,840
Why it will stress you out:
As a PR manager, it's your job to get your client or company in the
news, which sometimes means dealing with reporters who aren't interested
in what you have to say. Also, as a company spokesperson, you are
responsible for representing the company, which can be stressful. When
the company is faced with a crisis, you're the one who has to put out
the fire.
Why it's worth it: If you work at an
agency, you may have a variety of clients, which can keep things
interesting. You often get to flex your creative muscles when planning
new campaigns or programs to get publicity for a client. And if you
enjoy public speaking and like thinking on your feet, you'll find the
job exciting.
Average annual pay: $105,690
Why it will stress you out:
The volatile economy has made the job of real-estate agent more
stressful. You have clients with unrealistic expectations of what their
home price should be, and having to sell a home for more than it's worth
can be a challenge. You may also devote time and energy to helping
clients find a new home, only for them to back out on the sale. And
working on commission means you rely on those sales for a paycheck.
Why it's worth it:
According to the National Association of Realtors, total home sales in
2012 were the highest they've been in five years, and they predict that
sales will continue on an upward trend. Also, it's a great job for
people who don't want to sit at a desk all day.
Average annual pay: $51,170
Why it will stress you out: According to a 2011 CareerBuilder survey,
high school teachers were named among the most frightening professions.
And no wonder -- dealing with hormone-raging teenagers can be scary.
Also, some teachers deal with large class sizes and financial strain,
which can make their jobs more difficult. They're also held accountable
for students' academic performances and may encounter disrespectful
students or unhappy parents.
Why it's worth it: It
may be one of the most stressful jobs out there, but it's also one of
the most rewarding. There's no better feeling than teaching students new
skills and seeing them grow and succeed.
Average annual pay: $56,760
6. Veterinarian
Why it will stress you out: As
the BLS notes, "Veterinarians' work can sometimes be emotionally
stressful as they deal with sick animals and the animals' anxious
owners. Also, the workplace can be noisy as the animals make noise when
sick or being handled." Basically, working with sick animals can take a
toll on you.
Why it's worth it: Job prospects are
good; according to the BLS, employment of veterinarians is expected to
grow 36 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all
occupations. Plus, if you love animals, you get to have a direct hand in
helping them.
Average annual pay: $91,250