Are you happy being a pharmacist?

Pharmacists are one of the least happy careers in the United States. At CareerExplorer, we conduct an ongoing survey with millions of people and ask them how satisfied they are with their careers. As it turns out, pharmacists rate their career happiness 2.7 out of 5 stars which puts them in the bottom 9\% of careers.

Why are pharmacists miserable?

One cause for concern is that as much as 70\% of pharmacists are dissatisfied with their current job. Pharmacist Chalene puts it this way, “When neutral about a job it may also be a defensive refusal to be dissatisfied”. Sometimes, ego may make you persist with a job that you are tired of, as was the case with me.

Is pharmacist a respectable job?

According to Forbes, the average salary for a pharmacist is $116,700. Many pharmacy graduates are saddled with crushing student loan debt, but this is still good money. And the career options and flexibility mentioned above sweeten the deal. However, it’s a really nice salary to receive immediately out of college.

Is it hard to find a job as a retail pharmacist?

As a retail pharmacist, I don’t have a set schedule. Making my situation worse, as a fairly new pharmacist, I am lucky if I can even get weekend days off or get enough hours. The job market is saturated, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Yes, you will be able to find jobs if you keep looking but it’s likely in the middle of nowhere.

What myths do you want to dispel about being a pharmacist?

So let’s get to some myths I want to dispel about being a pharmacist. They say pharmacists have a great work-life balance. Unlike doctors, they get to work the 9-5. Not so fast there. Most pharmacies are open until 8 or 9 pm and also on weekends. And for those working in long-term care, shifts run up to 2 am or even 24 hours.

Is pharmacy a stressful career?

Those trying to put it lightly will just say, pharmacy is a fast-paced career. To me, it is a stressful one that can potentially put lives in danger. I come home stressed and I am physically and mentally exhausted from work that I have no motivation to exercise.

Is pharmacy a good career choice?

If you do land a job in a slightly desirable area, say goodbye to a full-time position (as I’ve had to) and say hello to paying for your own healthcare insurance as a part-timer. Those trying to put it lightly will just say, pharmacy is a fast-paced career. To me, it is a stressful one that can potentially put lives in danger.