The Dignity of Work: Why Even Small Jobs Matter

The Dignity of Work: Why Even Small Jobs Matter

In a world where success is often measured by titles and salaries, many people look down on small jobs. But the truth is, no job is too small or insignificant. Whether you’re selling mutura by the roadside, doing boda boda deliveries, or working as a shop attendant, every honest job holds value. In Kenya, where the cost of living is high and opportunities seem limited, embracing the dignity of work—no matter how small—is the first step towards financial independence.

Work is More Than Just a Paycheck

Many people dismiss small jobs because they seem like mere survival tactics. But Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This means that every effort you put into your work, no matter how small, has meaning and purpose.

Take for example, James, a university graduate who couldn’t secure a white-collar job after finishing school. Instead of waiting endlessly, he started selling boiled eggs and smokies outside busy bus stops in Nairobi. At first, people mocked him, but he remained consistent. Three years later, James now owns a thriving fast-food kiosk in town and employs three other young people.

Small Jobs Lead to Bigger Opportunities

Every big success story started somewhere. Most successful business people in Kenya didn’t start with millions in capital; they started small and grew. If you talk to successful shop owners, mitumba traders, or boda boda riders who now own fleets, you’ll realize that they once started with just one step.

Wanjiku, for instance, began as a househelp in Kiambu. Instead of feeling ashamed of her job, she learned from her employer how to run a business. Over time, she saved money and started her own grocery shop. Today, she supplies fresh produce to multiple restaurants and employs others who were once struggling like her.

Here are some small jobs in Kenya that could lead to bigger opportunities:

✅ Mitumba (Secondhand Clothes) Selling – Many successful fashion entrepreneurs started by selling mitumba in markets like Gikomba before opening their own boutiques.

✅ Boda Boda Riding – Some riders save money to buy more motorcycles and eventually start a fleet or a delivery business.

✅ Selling Snacks or Fresh Juice – With consistency, one can expand to a fast-food joint or even a catering business.

✅ Online Reselling – Buying and reselling items like shoes, handbags, or electronics on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Jiji can turn into a full-fledged e-commerce business.

✅ Freelancing (Graphic Design, Writing, Social Media Management) – Many professionals in the digital space started as freelancers before growing into agency owners.

✅ Car Wash Business – Some individuals start by washing cars manually but later expand into automated car wash services.

👩‍🌾 Urban Farming – Small-scale farming, such as selling vegetables from kitchen gardens, can grow into a large agribusiness.

No Job is Below You, But Laziness Will Keep You Down

The biggest mistake many young people make is waiting for the “perfect” job while ignoring available opportunities. Hustling doesn’t mean you’ll remain in the same position forever—it’s a stepping stone. Many people who now own large businesses started by selling things on the streets or working as casual laborers.

Instead of looking down on a small job, ask yourself: How can I grow from here? The key to success isn’t just getting a job; it’s about putting in effort, learning, and making smart moves.

Conclusion

No work is beneath you if it’s honest. A small job today could be the foundation of your future success. Embrace work with diligence and excellence, and over time, opportunities will open. The dignity of work isn’t about the size of the job—it’s about the attitude you bring to it.