Rat race

A rat race is a term used for an endless, self-defeating or pointless pursuit. It conjures up the image of the futile efforts of a lab rat trying to escape whilst running around a maze or in a wheel. In an analogy to the modern city, many rats in a single maze run around making a lot of noise bumping into each other, but ultimately "achieve nothing (meaningful) either collectively or individually".

"The rat race" is a term often used to describe work, particularly excessive work; in general terms, if one works too much, one is "in the rat race". This terminology contains implications that many people see work as a seemingly endless pursuit with little reward or purpose. Not all workers feel like this. It is the perceived Conventional Wisdom, for example, that those who work for themselves are generally happier at work.

The increased image of work as a "rat race" in modern times has led many to question their own attitudes to work and seek a better alternative; a more harmonious Work-life balance. Many believe that long work hours, unpaid overtime, stressful jobs, time spent commuting, less time for traditional family life, has led to a generally unhappier workforce/population unable to enjoy the benefits of increased economic prosperity and a higher standard of living.

"Escaping the rat race" can have a number of different meanings:
*A description of the movement, of either the "Home" or "Work Location", of previously "City Dwellers" or "Workers" to more rural locations, possibly beyond the "urban growth boundary".
*Retirement in general or no longer needing / having to work.
*Moving from a high pressure job to a less intense role either at a different company or within the same company at an alternative location or department.
*Changing to a different job that does not involve working 9 to 5 and a long commute.
*Working from home.
*Becoming financially independent from an employer.
*Becoming a hobo or hippie.
*Graduating from an academic institution, see College or University.
*Simple living or Voluntary Simplicity.

Quote

*"The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat." — Lily Tomlin

*"“No matter what you do in the rat race, success is not guaranteed, but if you do nothing failure is”" . [http://www.ratracebooks.com Paul Ulasien] – Author of : The Corporate Rat Race: The Rats Are Winning

Further reading

*"Leaving the Mother Ship" by Randall M. Craig (Knowledge to Action Press, ISBN 0-9735404-0-0, 2004).