I quit my job to become a janitor | Clean Slate Experience
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ค. 2024
- Listen to this podcast -bit.ly/cleanslatepod
In this episode, I sit down with James English, a long time friend and mentor. We discuss the journey to success, how that really never ends, and finding what success really is. Is it being on private planes, driving luxury cars, or freedom to spend time with your family?
__________________________________________________________________
I quit my job to become a janitor. Now, I'm a business owner, author, and speaker.
In this series, I'm going to take you through that journey and how I found my calling in a toilet bowl.
We'll also hear from individuals who have also pivoted and acted on their calling.
If you're ready to find and act on your calling - this series is dedicated to you.
Connect with Me:
IG - / gerrensprauve
FB - / growwgerren
LinkedIn - / gerrensprauve
Grab a Copy of my book "Fast Track Your Calling"
bit.ly/cleanslatebook
______________________
Produced by BrandCrumbs Media
-- ) Find them at brandcrumbsmedia.com
Filmed at Venture X Downtown Orlando
-- ) Find them at orlando.venturex.com
______________________________________________________________________
I quit my job to become a janitor | Clean Slate Experience Podcast
Custodians are one of the MOST over looked jobs out there. I've been a janitor for 3 years and it's been a wonderful experience. I've learned all kinds of things that I needed to know for example, plumbing, electrical, cleaning, building maintenance. Skills I can take home with me, and not have to pay someone else to do. It's very humbling like you said.
Good for you. May I ask, do you prefer being a janitor over being a plumber, electrician etc? Asking because I'm considering this line of work. Thanks.
I quit my job at the post office to become a janitor at my old middle school. Life has definitely been a lot better now. Even though I only did it for few months, I was still miserable being a mailman. My dad and some others were very disappointed in me for quitting my job, but I realised that I have to pursue my own path. And so far, my job as a custodian has great! I'm pursuing another job opportunity, but I was given the offer to stay as a sub to keep my foot in the door in case the new job doesn't work out. Yep, go your own path. Never sacrifice your happiness to please other people. Even if it's your family. Especially if it's your family.
THIS dude’s got me smiling. “Never sacrifice your happiness to please other people. Especially if it’s your family.” he says. There so much substance to what you shared. Thanks for this!
I used to be a manager for two jobs and I am a lot happier now as a housekeeper at a senior home for seniors with Alzheimer's. I get a lot of looks and questions but I don't care. I love my job! I love the people I work with already (today was literally my second day). I have prior experience in maintenance when I worked at Costco before I ever became a manager and didn't realize how much I missed it till I got to my new job. I'm in a much happier mind set. Family and friends are awesome but they have no say in how I manage my happiness. Blessings to any who read this. I wish you much wellness and happiness!
@@kimikorux I know I'm late replying to this, but I'm happy to hear that you chose to be happy by going a different direction than staying stuck at the two jobs that were making you unhappy. And that you don't care how people view you by being a housekeeper. Once you stop caring how other people view you, and you go your own path you experience a whole nother level of freedom!
@@joe-ux2kl thank you and I wholeheartedly agree 💯 many blessings!🧿💫
Dude, being a custodian is severely underrated. I’ve never been happier and felt more free. I guess the key to be financially happy as well is budgeting and investing for retirement
I'm glad you've found what you needed from/through it!
Custodians are the back bone of any business. If the buildings aren't maintained properly.. no one will want to do any business, eat or gather there for any kind of event or other social gathering. That place will then close down and all of the other workers there will lose their jobs. I now work in maintenance in a medical facility and all of the CNA and RNA can't do anything without the help of maintenance. They need me and my fellow maintenance workers to keep the place going. Custodians are underappreciated by many and they don't realize how much they need us to keep their job easy to work at. I'm glad there are some people who do appreciate us. I have a lot of my co-workers that tell me, thank you whenever I clean the floors, taking out their trash and fix the electronics. It's nice to know they see how important my job is the them.
@@sub4you282 agreed man. I’m proud of this profession
@@sub4you282 You said it best ✌ keep up the good work
Same here. I've spent half my years working in corporate America to one day "Get Promoted" and it never happened. I just got laid off again on 11/1 and immediately set up my LLC and landed accounts to pay rent, car payment food - 4 DAYS LATER!!. I learned one thing from owning a cleaning company. NO ONE will ever give you what you want; depend on yourself to get you there. Great Story Garen. Continued success!
Served in the Navy for 4 years. Came out of the Navy and got a gig as a custodian while going to school for IT. I became a full-time custodian after realizing that IT did not make me happy. 29 years later becoming a custodian and eventually, a head custodian was the best move of my life.
Was in the B avy as well and ritured from the military
I was 38. Making great money. Yes hated it everyday. Wanted to be out by 40. Then company got bought and lost my job. Felt relief not fear. Got a job as janitor at local school district. Yes lost money but it's my kids school and now I love going to work.
I'm a custodian, how many rooms do you clean??
Do you have to clean restrooms?
@@Native722 yes. 10. 4 full and 6 singles
Fully understand. I’m a custodian for the school district as well. I love providing for my daughter as a single mom. It works well for me and my daughter. I can get all the overtime I want and bring my daughter to work with me when needed. I’m about to be 39 and I’ll probably retire with the district. Great benefits too.
I'm 38 also...I was offered a job as custodian at my kids school...seriously thinking about it...its ok money at my current job and I know I'll be taking a pay cut...but it 11 min from home verses 30 min I drive now
Me too. Quit my job in accounting and now janitor for same company. Life is good!
🤯 You’ve got people like, “Wait! What?!?”
Life…. Is…. Good! Tell them why.
whoa. i wish i can do the same. i work in accounting too, but office life kills me. i want to try manual labor jobs. how was your transition?
@@pastamasta8985 Transition not easy, but with time I'm used to making a third of the money I previously made. I had to move and lost a lot of friends....but have made new ones and far happier. Good luck to you in your transition....maybe!
@@krpbdpI can understand. The thought of working in certain fields seems soul crushing. Happiness is a top priority. How are you now?
@@Sol-Amar I'm good. Embracing humility was a good lesson, but the right one for me.
I was just looking for a job and nothing fit me until i start thinking about my dad his job as a janitor bro how happy he was and that open my eyes and realize I'm happy when everything is clean. Boom 💥 my calling to serve. Thanks for confirmation 😊
Worked in a warehouse before I switched to a local custodian job got to say at first it’s very humbling and little to no stress depending on the environment and building of course. I’m extremely blessed and using half my paychecks to invest
I'm a custom for a middle school..and make over 20 bucks an hour..work mon-fri weekends off,by myself 95 percent of the time , listen to my podcasts and music whatever I want..take as long as a lunch as I want.. great benefits great work environment yeah I'm pretty lucky not bad 😎👍
If you know your chemicals and equipment very well, you can land good gigs. Just be on time, professional and get the job done. A lot of people look down on it like my parents did, but when they saw I was able to buy a 2020 car from it, they told me to just expand my business. I started out as a night janitor, thought it was going to be hell, but eventually I became my own boss. Way more money than when I was slaving as a construction worker and trying to blow up as a rapper/music producer. I also do window cleaning on the side. BIGGEST PERK!!!! I don't have to work weekends and spend more time with girl on Friday evenings.
Sounds like you created your own journey. 🫡
Ayy shout out to all my custodial homies ✌🕉 Being a custodian is one of the best jobs in my opinion. Typically they pay good, Great benefits, great environment. Great energy.
100!!
Damn what company do you work for? You won’t be saying that at my custodial job and I make $23/hr. You’ll hate it I guarantee you.
@@mannyrodriguez3933 $23/hr doesn’t sound great to you but there are custodians making minimum wage in some states still.
I agree. I love it. I’ll do it until I retire. The benefits alone are amazing.
@@mannyrodriguez3933 that's the problem, you work for a cleaning company and not employed by the actual company/ building you're cleaning. I'm a middle school custodian making 21.30 starting and it's very easy and stress free. my friend was a custodian for a company that traveled to other sites to clean and he was stressed out because he was a contractor. for custodial work always do one that is at the same location everyday or cleaning gor the actual company building.
Similarly, I drove a delivery van many years ago, but left to further my education and job prospects. After 25 years of public school teaching, I long for the days of my daily delivery route. No stress, my customers loved me, and the satisfaction level was high.
When I retire this June, I'm looking to doing what I enjoyed years ago. I hope I can do it again.
Simple living. It's so liberating.
PLEASE DO AND ENJOY LIFE
I start next week as a custodian, I prayed and ask God what my purpose is. All my life I seem to struggle. All I ask God is to bless me with stability and joy. He opened a door for me as a custodian. It was destined for me to see your video bro. It just confirmed and encouraged me to see I'm in God's lane for the purpose He has for me. Keep me in prayer and thank you for this amazing message and testimony of your success of living in God's plan. God bless you and your loved ones.
21:48 I am ABSOULTE IN SAME JOURNEY. I was helping a single mom, with her cleaning company. Then she close the company and factory beg me to stay as custodian. Then I struggle with ptsd where my dad said all I can ever be is a janitor and not even that. Then keep pressing a d praying I found healing, I love my boss and I got a rise so I am on the journey ey that I know
.
th-cam.com/video/GPXT0Nv-Urk/w-d-xo.htmlsi=LHQ8n2R3pkH6A5Jp
Ive been a Janitor for over 10yrs now and I love it! My mental health has been great! I dont have bosses or managers hovering over me all the time in fact I hardly see them maybe once every few months I love it and plus I have more time with my children ❤
Currently a groundskeeper. (Basically outdoor custodian) I’ve worked in retail, warehouse and now grounds/maintenance. I’ve never had a job I’ve liked but I guess this is the one I like the best.
I think everyone’s journey is different. For some the custodian job is the grass is always greener job that gets rid of their office work stress… for me it’s the feeling you described in the beginning of the video. I wake up every morning sad wondering if this is all I can ever have. If I’m even good enough for anything else. I’m absolutely depressed and miserable. The benefits are the job is that people leave me alone. I get a lot of time outside, I’m always moving and walk 20,000 steps a day. But these days I’m lagging behind. Tired of running. Tired of doing the same thing every day and barely making it with money.
I too also have a college degree.
Thank you, Gerren, for sharing. I am also a custodian/janitor even though I went to college. The journey is wild and unpredictable. Who knows where life will take you next?
I was 17 when I quit life, I had a mother with Lyme disease, an absent father, a grandfather die, an aunt die, my parents divorce. I was taking ap classes I had a free ride to college. A paid off car. A girlfriend. I had friends. It all came crashing down at the same time. I dropped out of school senior year. For 7 years I was depressed. Suicidal. Stopped eating. Only left my bed to use the bathroom. Basically “Diogenes Syndrome”. I don’t know what you did, but your sincerity and you words broke through the walls around me giving me the chance to move forward. I don’t know how long this period of clarity will last but I thank you for giving it to me.
@jaron3221 ………. Let’s talk.
Hit me on my company’s website contact page. www.cleanslatejan.com
@@gerrensprauve2520 done
Only two minutes into your message and I can relate. Looking back I adapted to any situation and followed the money. My early jobs at ages 15-25 in hindsight were the most enjoyable. Last two decades sales, high volume, high quotas, going from entrepreneur, individual contributor to managing a team. Now, looking for a role that will fit MY life's wants and needs, and not the other way around. I have chosen a similar path. Task-driven work aligns with my values, pays well, and gives me the flexibility I'm looking for here on out.
I wanted to wish you an enjoyable and fulfilling journey.
Thank you for sharing.
TD
You got my follow brother, I needed this. I can say I just received my first janitorial job and I’m blessed.
I'm grateful that this video showed up in my feed today. Love your message.
This was absolutely amazing! Thank you for being real and transparent with us 🙏🏽 It was very much needed, as we only get to see the highlight reels of other peoples success - but it is very helpful to understand different journeys to success.
Be patient through the frustration and pay attention - that's where I'm at. I needed to hear it. Thanks.
This Makes perfect sense! I been on my own journey for a yr and half. I love where its leading me. I feel unstoppable! Inspiring!
I absolutely love that phase. "I feel unstoppable!" Heck yeah!!!! Share if you're comfortable. I'm sure others would be inspired by your decision.
Bro your video appeared on my timeline and I am happy I clicked into it, I enjoyed this and needed to hear this, enjoy your journey it seems like you found your path..
I am a head custodian I love my job but just get bet up I feel that so many people don’t care about the job. you just gave me life again. Thank you 🙏
My pleasure John! 🙏🏾
Thanks for the knowledge brotha everything you said I was going through, I recently just switched departments at my factory to the janitor position I start Monday and I'm excited to have that joy, and satisfaction through my day.
While you’re in that role, stay open Donnell. You may be surprised what opportunities to share who you are comes your way. It’s all about practicing for your next journey.
Be a consummate professional no matter your role. Stay educated on things important so that you as value to every conversation/interaction. It’ll be cool to see what happens next.
Thank you for your speaking, truly inspirational!
Brother. I went to college graduated, got a master, retired Army, contractor oversea. Still, I created a cleaning company. Believe me I can't be happier; I wish I have done that long time ago. I am free, working when I feel like, making 3 to $5,000 a week
Really?
Happy for you bro
Inspiring thanks for sharing your journey! I went to school and didn’t make it through because I just did what I was told I was supposed to. I worked in corporate great benefits, different and after years I was miserable. Started entrepreneurship and haven’t looked back because while it isn’t always easy it was something I was passionate about.
Thanks for this motivation and confirmation!
That feeling......doing what we're passionate about. It's unbelievable!! Keep pushing Jeanelle.
I needed to hear this. Thank you
Just started few months back as a Janitor. I'm not going to lie I'm very happy where I'm working at. I'm 25 and surprised that not alot of young people not working in this job instead they would be a lumper at a logistics company getting paid $15 and a janitor gets paid more. You don't deal with other workers and get blasted by the boss as long you clean your all good.
Sounds like you’ve figured out what’s meaningful to you on this assignment. Imagine how many people you could impact by just Vibing with that positive attitude. I tip my hat to you
been a janitor since oct. best thing that ever happend to me so far. pay is great, work enviroment, my gf vouched for me to her boss and i was scheduled for an interview that same week. anyway i was working carpentry before this and took my apprentice red seal carpentry course' so i guess the janitor gig is my "clean slate"
😏 I saw what you did there. Nice!
I absolutely love the process of polishing floors and using a mop.
Wow this hit home for me, thank you for the message. It is what it is needed.
To your success 🫡
Thank you .. so much . Blessings
This is a great video man!
I was working on sales and desperately wanted change after 13 years of the same thing everyday.
My goal is building my music career as a Christian artist, but I had no time!
My wife had quit her job at a nursing home a few years ago to start a solo house cleaning business. 6 months ago I quit my job and I joined her. It’s been quite the journey. A lot of the things you’d said. Wondering if she looked at me less now or others as well. Now I’m at the place where I’m happy and excited for the future. I have Fridays off from cleaning to focus on building my music career and I get to hang out with my wife all day.
Thanks for your honesty!
Thank you for sharing! I thought your words were very wise.
Thanks I needed to hear that.
I often think about those years between uni graduation and finally figuring out what I wanted to do. Those were scary, empty years. Having no idea what I was really gonna do. Only thing that kind of helped was a few of my friends were on the same boat so we helped each other to find our paths. Those were eerie years of my life.
I needed this! Thank you! I have an interview as a service attendant cleaning buses on Monday! This gave me more insight on my decision.
🫡
I really like the way he talks. Super unique
I love your story, you are also an excellent speaker!
Thanks for sharing that!
Liked and subscribed ✅ Don’t ever stop pushing through, your channel’s going to be big.
Much love on the support Lamell. I’ll keep it going for whomever it’ll help.
I just stumbled on your video. I'm new in Canada and having my first interview in few hours time for the role of a Janitor. Hopefully I get it 🤞
Love this idea ❤
I've been doing maintenance for a couple years working nights, been thinking of going into the school district..I love cleaning & compared to other jobs I've had I'm In the best mental space & to me that's the most important thing ever if I'm going to provide for my family!🙏🙏
I've read and reread your words and what jumps out the most is this. "I'm in the best mental space....the most important thing ever!" Yooooo!!! In the grand scheme of things, what's better than that? YOU stay blessed! Keep pushing
Me debating if a janitor job will make my mental space better or worse and then reads this
Thank you for the encouraging words1
Great video!!
Love love love my job. Been 4 years neve been happier. I left my factory job now i clean love it
"There are so many people depending on the future you" Subscribed. Enjoy the day Gerren.
100!!! Totally will. Thanks for subscribing.
I have an interview tomorrow as a custodian at a major entertainment center in a town I just moved to and this motivated me so much. I never thought I would be in this situation but I relate so much to this right now. Wish me luck!
Let us know if you need any help before the interview. We want you to win!
@@gerrensprauve2520 I want to just tell the interviewer to listen to this video and let it be the interview lol. I know i will have to use my own words though. Thanks brother. This video will be in my heart tomorrow and will help me be more confident. God bless.
@@sml1991 blessings your way.
Just watched your video, it was incredibly inspiring to hear about your journey and how you went your own way! People weren't meant to fit into neat little boxes or work the same job until they die with no way out. Stuck in a cubicle with a computer, not moving around, adorned by the soul sucking florescent lights that EVERY place seems to have.
I work in IT coming up on my 10th year and I'm salaried. I make good money but feel like I'm glued to the computer or phone ALL day. I'm on call too in case systems break and the stress levels are just downright unhealthy. One of my managers died of a heart attack a couple years ago before retirement age. It really puts things in perspective when stuff like that happens. It was during covid and we were working from home and they just announced it, no in person condolences, funeral, anything. People went back to their meetings that day and I felt like saying what the hell is wrong with you people?
Your story was affirming to me. Humans aren't robots. No matter what anyone says or thinks it's so important to do what's right for you and puts you at peace.
Right now I love to write short stories and poetry as a hobby. I couldn't imagine becoming a janitor, people would look at me like I'm crazy. But if I really think about it, if I got second shift somewhere I wouldn't have to get up early and I'd have the rest of the time to enjoy. Another HUGE part that NOBODY talks about with white collar jobs is the emotional/stress baggage and how you take all that home with you. The on edge and thinking about workcontinues after you go home, it doesn't stop.
Sometimes just thinking about being a janitor or something like that makes me feel relieved. Just thinking about it does!
I had to watch this again. I have custodial job lined up across the street at a hospital. I have to do a physical tomorrow and pre-screening. I start next monday.
Let us know how it goes. Much success to you on it!
I have been on this earth for fifty years and still don't know what my gifts are or why I was created. I'm running out of time. Ask God so many times I've lost count. Who am I why am I here? Still no answer.
MY GOD! BLESS YOUR HEART AND MINE TOO. #I'm WITH YA Just don't give up yet he has a solid solidial purpose for all of us... DONT LET NO ONE STEAL YOUR JOY... IT GETS MUCH GREATER AND BETTER LATER.. # JUST DONT GIVE UP..
Didn't expect an inspiring speech but glad I found it. Trying to decide between bakery or janitor. Lower pay and possibly happier or more pay and possibly beat. 🤔
You’re welcome Alicia. If you’d like to know further how I got here and you enjoy reading, you can check out my book, “Fast Track Your Calling” on Amazon.
Another book I’d recommend to help you think through things is The E Myth - Why most small businesses don’t work and what to do about it by Michael Gerber. The audio is a great listen.
Both of your ideas can be ultra rewarding. It may depend on what inner work you want to focus on. 🤔.
Needed to hear this
However I can help
So did I. I was able to make the move financially and I'm happy I'm not bringing work home, I'm not constantly on call, and now I'm in the best shape in my life.
But believe me it wasn't my first choice but I was stuck and didn't want to manage ppl anymore, and being a school custodian was an option for me to make that change. It was/still an adjustment for me when I i was in a position of authority to now a lowly janitor. But I'm working on myself to not care what other ppl think.
I started doing janitorial in 2012 after my son was born I started as crew and worked an old Macy's building downtown that was about 13storys and I had some of the best times there with the crew of 5 of us I was the floor guy and ran the scrubber. Then I became supervisor and went to another location to run my own crew then after 5yrs with the company I was promoted to operations manager and was put on salary now as of 2022 i became an area supervisor making over 40k a year and was given my own company vehicle and cell phone and gas card. Life has never been better!!
We can find what we’re looking for out of life in unlikely places. Kudos to you!!
Gerre am so touched, this is so educative and encouraging am at starting a journey to become a janitor, but I don't want to just be any janitor employed by a company but I would like to have my own company offering such services 🙏
You're absolutely welcome! How else can I help?
@@gerrensprauve2520 I really want to go into cleaning services, have even registered the company, am now planning to start purchasing some equipments needed for the service, have also ordered some flies to start distributing them to people as some sort of marketing, have not yet quited my job but I really want to do as soon as possible because I know the job will need my full presence, am I in the right track, plz advise
Very motivational...I am sharing
Thanks Hester.
I’m happy to clean classrooms, hallways, and bathrooms. I like being a custodian!
“Thank you.” It’s because of you our children have a safe, clean environment to learn in.
I’m in my 10th year with the Army and currently deployed. As for my career, I’m ready to start fresh and decompress, even if it means beginning at an entry-level position
I have worked in finance for almost 15 years. I feel nothing while I am there, it’s like I am on auto pilot and I feel dread every day I just accepted a job as a custodian and am so excited to start this part of my journey.
You’re playing with the beauty of life. That’s pretty awesome and courageous of you
I'm thinking about being a janitor. I'm gonna be 39 in a few weeks. I've been a security guard for 7 years now and I feel burned out
I'm trying to decide between security guard or janitor. I'm close to 40 as well and I need to make a choice. Idk which to pick but I'm going after those two options
Happy to hear you do what you like. I'm interested in getting a career in this. Do they pay good?
When you say "Getting a career in this." What do you mean?
I started as a cleaner at the University of Buffalo. I took a promotion as Supervising Janitor in Albany NY which lead to Head Janitor and then to Chief Janitor 1. This job was at the Empire State Plaza an 11,000,000 csf. Just do as he says and it could work for you.
Solid!
Im a elementary school custodian for the past 13 years. I work my butt off because we are understaffed but we get it done! I feel like a beat piece of meat after my 9 to 10 hour shift but I do feel a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day!
It can be like that at times. That’s the sandbox you’re playing in. I’m curious to what you’re learning or how you’re growing through this experience.
This is one of the channels that gave me the courage to start my TH-cam channel 6 months ago about self development. Now I have 413 subs and > 100 hours of watch time. I know it’s not comparable with others but I’m still proud I started because I’ve been learning so many lessonsÀ we that I couldn’t have learned without getting started in the 1st place.
💪🏾 Let’s go!! Proud of you my guy!
Allow me to be subscriber 414.
@@gerrensprauve2520 Thanks so much!
I realized that the main reason for doing this is not about the success but the inspiration I've been providing some people with my stories while helping others do the same as I shared the lessons & experiences through making videos to have a sense of meaningful purpose. Therefore, I’m planning to quit nursing to pursue youtube full time as there are lots of issues in our traditional health systems as these don’t align with my values. It’s a huge learning curve but I love helping people through making videos.
Also, as part of my video creation progress, I’m switching to a better editing software and a camera so the learning curve is much higher and slows down the completion speed of my next videos so please hang on tight! I do appreciate your support and kind words! I am hoping that you can join me with this endless personal development journey! :)
@@nathananderson8720 hop on my company site and shoot me over your info. www.cleanslatejan.com or LinkedIn.
We’ll talk further.
Good Video ❤
Thank you
@wendellkirton3694 you know that's a powerful phrase! You're welcome.
I'm 27 and just landed a janitor job after 2+ years of unemployment. (had previous experience in the field)
I finally feel like i belong in society again and spent this first day following the instructor, a lot of info to absorb and many rooms and floor to memorize. (I work in a public building with indoor swimmingpools etc)
Yooooooo!! Congrats on the opportunity! Do share how things are going along the way. And if you need any help thinking through the journey, hit me up. I'm always willing to share.
I’m kind of the opposite I’m trying to become a real estate photographer and currently I’m a janitor at a school district. It’s good money (depending on location and company) and benefits. But its really not fulfilling. Where i work, my coworkers are lazy. It’s easy to be and get away with laziness. It’s rampant in the custodial world. There’s a lot of drama that comes with being a janitor, most janitorial staff will vie for power and you’ll be sucked into that drama. You may not see or interact with many people but you’ll always get the complainers that won’t communicate with you directly but go behind your back and cause problems for you, even though you’re doing everything as directed or better. You won’t always be supported by people around you either. You’ll be looked at as just another janitor that comes and goes. Some people will treat you differently BECAUSE you’re a janitor. And you won’t always have the opportunity to make more money. Unless you’re the supervisor or the owner of the janitorial business you won’t make a lot of money. So if you’re okay with all of these things, then sure! Being a janitor can be great. You get a lot of down time. And the benefits came be good. But you won’t go any higher than just a janitor. Your accomplishments will go over looked sometimes. You’ll be frustrated a lot. And some of the duties can be stressful on your body. Particularly your back. I’m 36 years old and I’ve been a janitor for 7 years. I constantly now have to take time off for medical leave because my back is so messed up. I’ll forever live with a messed up back. Because the job demands you lift heavy objects that sometimes are very awkward to carry, you can be physically fit and still hurt yourself over time. You are constantly looking down at the floor to mop or sweep or even to clean bathroom. Your neck will constantly hurt because of you looking down all the time. Especially moving around in air ducts to change filters. You’ll be playing a lot of twister with your body, banging into heavy objects and equipment. You’ll slip and fall, it happens to us all eventually. It might be worth it for the first couple of years. But the toll on your body is real. The lack of feeling challenged and supported is real. The lack of moving up the pay scale is real. This job is basically a nowhere job. If that’s somehow sounding nice to some of you then by all means I hope you’re happy, I really do. Maybe you have building where people are nice and treat you right. Maybe the job where you’re at isn’t so cleaning intensive. I hope for your sake that’s true. Currently I’m trying to move on with my life. I’ve noticed my attitude become a lot more negative since becoming a janitor. The job never feels complete or satisfying. As an amateur photographer shooting homes and getting paid much better than I’ve ever have with janitorial, makes me feel good again. I encourage anyone wanting to be a janitor to give it serious thought. It’s not always easy. Especially in the school districts. You’ll get tired. You think you won’t, you think you’ll have it so easy and you’ll have all this freedom to do what you want as long as you get your work done, time will go by and i guarantee every single one of you will get tired of it. Give it time. You will. I worked crazy hours as a janitor. I’ve had to fix things as a janitor. You’ll be doing more than cleaning. Oh and just wait til you have to do yearly waxing of gym floors or the hallways at a high school. Yeah it’s pretty easy. But you’re still screwing up your body. Take it from me, I would seriously think about this… create a janitorial business if that’s what you want to do. But don’t go out and BE a janitor. You’ll like it at first. I did. I was just like you all on here. Confident, relaxed. Stress free. All this stuff I’m seeing on here. You’ll eventually quit. Not trying to be a doggy downer but it’s seriously a job that is very hard on your body over time. You’ll form bad habits that make you hate yourself a little bit. It’s not a cake walk.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Manny. It really seems as though the experiences you've had over the years have really shifted how you feel about things. Hey! It's real. What you're saying can happen with a wide variety of jobs. Being the role of a Janitor doesn't hide you from the harsh reality of life.
I'm interested in what positive things you've learned while in the role? I'm not talking about how to clean or change filters. I'm talking about what have you learned in the care needed to do those things or the interactions you've had while doing those things. Who did you bump into? What part of your personality got challenged and you were able to strengthen it.
You see, to move on and take the journey of a photographer there are certain skillsets that you'll need. We all know it's not just point and click. So what skillsets did you practice (while in the role of a janitor) that will benefit you in your new role as a photographer? When you think about it, consider how much further ahead you'll be in your new role as a result of what you learned/experienced.
It's this whole idea of practicing man! Every step is meant to prepare you for something you asked for. Your ability to find the golden nugget that gets you excited to keep returning and practicing despite your back pain is what makes being in the role of a janitor so interesting.
Being a janitor got me into buildings that people who had all the fancy degrees and skills were dying to get into. I got to come in every night and meet the people they wanted to meet. I got to talk to them and understand their challenges much more than the folks outside did. I prepared to meet with them........while doing my job. I got to practice! And it paid off in pretty cool ways. You can too!
BLESS YOUR HEART BRO.!# I REALLY HOPE NOTHING BUT SUCCESS FOR YOU... AND ME ALSO. THANK YOU FOR THIS EYE OPENER...ABOUT 4.5 YRS AGO I RUPTURED MY QUAD WORKING FOR FED X... TO make a long story short.. 😪 I'm limited to the activities that I can do. My so called supposed to be wife looks down on me now.. and i recently just found out she's trying to leave me.. I'm really not sad or mad about it sort of hurt a lil bit.. But anyway she comes out of left field and suggests me being a janitor... I'm Like WOW!! that's what you really think 🤔 of me I'm Janitor material??? ANYWAYS I hope everything starts looking up for you.. Cause I can tell you now THE janitor position is not for me.. Thank you for setting it straight.
Huson from publix I’m locked in will be watching
I got you Huson. Just getting started. And I miss bumping into you in the produce section bro.
Legendary
Why?
Listening to this while cleaning a bank :)
Let me know what jumps out at you!
Just got Hired at in shape 😁😄 California custodian
Heck yeah!!! Let's go!
I been working as a janitor/ building service worker for over 6 years in the board of education. The job has great benefits. But let’s just say u better learn how to spend your money because it ain’t much. Roughly half the teachers thank u or look down on u. Or over thanking us is also a thing. Example- cleaning up bodily fluids. They would say thanks in a way like, better u than me. Or walking down the hall they say things like we appreciate everything y’all do. Yeah thanks for being appreciated, but they don’t have to say it because they think our jobs suck neither. Don’t get me wrong I love being appreciated by them but repeating often it can be a lil offensive. I have a diploma, but I wasn’t good at school if that make sense. So college was a know go for me. My wife is white and was a janitor at another school with higher education. So one day we went over a guys house that sold coral out his basement. I’m into aquariums btw. And he asked what we don’t for a living and I said janitor and he said o ok. Then he ask her. But before she said janitor he said a teacher. She said no janitor and his face said it all. With a Ooo ok. U see I’m trying to fine my way out because I feel like this is all a diploma black man can get without knowing someone else in another company. Would love to hear your advice.
Aslong as it makes good money, benefits and honesty, f**k the diplomas and degrees. Learn to invest your money that is all
I only got a GED and I worked my way up the ladder for a huge cleaning company I'm now an area supervisor and drive my own company vehicle and cell phone and company credit cards. Life's 👍
I really appreciate your insight. I've shared this because so many people needs this wisdom. I sent it out titled: Use your gifts and talents to sow into the Kingdom of God! Enjoying my process, too. A chosen one😇
I love it! Awesome!
4:19 is when he says janitor.
considering on doing this myself "19.50 an hour starting" and it could lead me where I wanna be.
Don't forget the cheat code. As you're in those offices you get to be inspired and can create the life you want. It's a gift.
I was a construction manager and superintendent for many years, eventually had to leave from stress. My wife got a janitorial job and I started helping her, I must say it is a very satisfying trade, because it is a trade. Without janitors, life would be absolutely a disaster and you have all been in an unkept area from restroom to office space. Everyone cleans the house, but nobody stays late to clean the office! Nobody will change filters or mop up their mess, we need janitors, and they are.
You’re absolutely correct and I’m glad you’ve found new life on this journey. It appears your stress level has shifted and you’ve found ways to live out your purpose in this field.
I'm going for it start next week to be a Mr. Miyagi
I love it!
The actions you take.
The focus you’ll have.
Your compassion & care.
Your sense of empathy and awareness.
Your eye for details.
Your listening.
These and much more are things you’ll learn in your Mr. Miyagi moments. And when you lay those skills over your daily life you’ll be even more powerful.
Watch and see.
I love being a custodian my boss is the coolest guy ever. I do it at night and have time to do stuff during the day. I cut off all the people that didn't support them because they didn't matter to me anymore. Watch Steve Hansen from the Janitorial store he built a whole business cleaning. This is no longer a job that you can make fun of. I love what I do.
😏 this made me smile.
Steve and Jean are friends of mine. I can’t remember if I mentioned that in the video but they helped me when I couldn’t find people to help. When local companies were being tight lipped about sharing info, they laid it all out. So you were definitely in good hands.
You’re correct that it’s a position of value….it’s always been! How we walk (carry ourselves) while working in that space shifts perceptions. If we take pride in how we look, what we say, do, etc. YOU’LL be noticed. You’re your own brand. Bring that to the workplace. Bring the one that helps you put your best foot forward.
I can't wait to become a janitor. That'll lead to where I wanna be in the film industry
Why did I began to grin really wide with your post? Sounds like you've recognized an opportunity to maximize that Janitor role. YO! Blessings your way. I hope it works out as planned. Go for it! Circle back and share the experience.
@@gerrensprauve2520 I will if I do get the job
@@rollingwithmoore why would you not? 😎 We’ll await the update.
@@rollingwithmoore same postition as you bro. I have a couple days to decide if i want to pursue film or english major. even took night shift to have this opportunity. but now i just want a normal life tbh good luck pursuing film!
@@thatnormalguy9 both are honorable Industries
This story was CRAZY motivational! I have a lawn care company and actually don't like it....yeah it's good money, but not fulfilling
I've been looking into starting a commercial cleaning business, and THIS was gold man! Great story and video
How have things been since you wrote this post Phil?
@@gerrensprauve2520 quit the lawn care business and started a residential house cleaning business! Wanted to ramp it up a few mo ths ago but grandma got sick and has stage 4 cancer, so it's on pause for now for the next month or so, but growing and building!
@@PhilRuybal Yoooo! Way to follow through on your word! Congratulations for that! Growing and building.
Re: Grandma...I'm sorry she's going through that. I swear I hate that disease! I pray you guys bring her comfort every day and that you too are comforted by the gift of her vibrant life to date. I'm praying for G'ma over here man! Keep your head up.
@@gerrensprauve2520 thank you so much man! That means alot to me and you really helped to push me to get into this business and with your pointers! So I thank you. Definitely wanna get in that commercial apace though lol. But I really do appreciate your help and checking in! Hope business and life for you is well
@@PhilRuybal 😏 that’s another video man. It’s been different since. Different good, from a character development standpoint. I didn’t lie when I said, “Let’s talk about the journey!”
Thanks for the sentiments. I’m intrinsically a teacher…an experiential learner, so learning and sharing is natural to me. It’s my gift. I’m glad that I’ve helped this far. When the time is right, hit me up and I can help.
future janitor hopefully
I quit milk factory September 2021 and now I am janitor
Congrats on the change you've made. I hope the move is getting you closer to where you want to be.
almost 30. have 5 years of custodial experience, 2 years of carpentry, 2 years of industrial machining, 2 years of HVAC. I came back thinking I could be content with this simple job. I'm miserable and bored.
Thanks for sharing where you’re at on your journey. You’ve got some solid experience!
I’m curious about your last statement. Could it be that you’re feeling miserable and bored because you’ve been focusing on the doing (of the work) vs the opportunities the work has been laying out for you? When you’re ready, take a look over yesterday. Who did you meet? What did you learn? What did you share? Be patient with the playback. #keeppushing
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TRUTH.
So I'm sitting here after getting laid off for my security job of 3 years and doing security for 10 plus years... Thinking if I want to be a custodian...
I had a job interview $18 an hour. PTO and paid holidays.
4-5 hours a day Monday through Friday. And one Sunday a month
At a office/factory building..
I'm nervous but I'm still debating if I should do it or not.. any suggestions?
RetroX… I’m glad you’re getting traction (employment opportunities). What I’ll encourage you to do is answer this question to yourself. “What am I working towards?”
This way you don’t feel stuck or that you’re in a dead end. Life is about progression and it’s on display in your life.
There are a lot of things you can learn and achieve while in this roll. You’ve just gotta know what area of your life you want to grow in! Let me know how else I can help.
if you're serious about being a custodian, look into being a Post Office custodian. There are always job postings for them. Full time work. Full benefits. In just about every state. FEDERAL RETIREMENT BENEFITS.
I work as a housekeeper at a hospital
What did you take from it that may have set you up for your next journey?
Is janitor a full time job or part time? What hours do a janitor work? I am looking at being one I would like more info
@crossbowhunter9118 it all depends on what the scope of work is. If you’re looking to work on a team I can show you how to maximize your opportunity and train to be awesome!
Janitor's are indeed the superior race.
What state are you from I am looking for a janitorial job part time
We’re in Florida
What's a my brother? I got a question? I was thinking about leaving a food service truck drivers job because of my back pain due to unloading carts with 20 ,30 and 40 pounds of frozen meat and vegetables that has to be unloaded every day, I know it may be some lifting but my question is, could custodian work be a little easier on my back? I just have 3 years to go until retirement, but the transfer would be within the same facility that I work at.👌🏾💯please let me know your opinion, I have also invested in wearing a lower back support belt as well.
This brother is planning out his future! Check that out! I love it!
The short answer to your question is, "The work is ABSOLUTELY less strenuous on your body." I think the heaviest thing I lifted on a regular basis was a 12lb backpack vacuum...which I loved. It was the first equipment I purchased and to this day I still keep one in my truck. It may be weird, but it gives me confidence if I'm ever to stop by and work alongside my team. My Manager often tells me, "Leave us alone. We got it!"
It's the fact that I get to work with them that excites me. While there I get to see how they solve problems, I get to crack jokes and know that we're creating opportunities for them to grow. There's so much to learn while in the role. And one of my goals is to help people in the service industry see the opportunities vs just seeing the work. If you're going to do it, here's what to look for.
I'm always checking in. Ask away!
@@gerrensprauve2520 thank you very much 💯👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾, I also told the custodian manager about my back issue and in so many words he stated that he would be willing to work with me.👌🏾💯💯💯
@@ignoranceisnotatrend4669 continue adding value in other arenas of the business and “working with you” will be a no brainer for your Manager. To your success!
@@gerrensprauve2520 now I have a maintenance specialist interview tomorrow after work, it's also within the same facility, the director over the department has even lefted me a voice mail and I spoke with him and told him that I have a little handyman experience from working around my house and he told me maybe he can find something for me, he asked if I knew how to paint,carpentry or any plumbing skills, I told him no but his tone sounds like he doesn't mind me working in the department. Let me know your opinion on this matter. 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾
@@ignoranceisnotatrend4669 Stay with me on this one. I want you to see your value, not so you can get arrogant about it, but so you can understand the power behind your role. Let's reverse engineer things for a sec.
Facility managers run into problems all the time within their facilities. Things break, leak, need installing, etc constantly. For them to call a specialist out to handle a small plumbing issue, or to hang a door will cost them a service fee + an hourly rate. Every time!!
If they have access to someone who can help out in a light duty role, they save tons annually.
How does that help me Gerren? Glad you asked.
When you understand HOW MUCH the company saves not having to call for all these light duty issues, you begin to realize your value. Now don't go thinking they're going to pay you what they would pay the specialist. They're still trying to save money....and you're helping them. This allows you the confidence of negotiating your salary. Again....don't get greedy with it. But UNDERSTAND that businesses are in business to make money and there's a lot of risk that's taken that you'll never experience. Taking on that risk is worth a lot. You don't just get to show up, clock in, clock out and not have a care in the world and expect to get it all.
Your ability to understand what's happening allows you to have better conversations. It allows the employer to say, "He gets it! I need to keep him around." It allows you to go in and negotiate based on fairness, not just "I want more just because." It builds your confidence based on real things, not feelings.
Sooooo, I think you're in a great position to get started and grow.....and know why you're growing and how you should grow. Go to youtube university and begin learning how to do some of those light maintenance tasks. It'll prove beneficial when it's time to talk pay.
This is stuff that I share with my team members (employees) and many of them don't even use what I'm telling them on me. But some of them will be the first to say "I deserve more!" But can't articulate why. I hope this hack helps.
I am a janitor for 23 years now. I hate every minute of it!
That’s quite a bit of time to suffer Robert. I’m down to it through w you for a bit if you’re down.
Thank you for telling the truth.. I've found out that many people would like you to suffer the same way they are suffering or even being unhappy at that...Thanks again.
Since I'm A Custodian Here In Philippines 🇵🇭✌️,I Hope One Day I'll Be Working Custodian In USA 🇺🇲🇺🇲 😊✌️✌️
I'm trying to quit my cleaning job people don't respect janitors even the supervisor treat you like crap they micromanage😡😡😡
Forget them, keep your pockets healthy, keep ur mental estate healthy.. do what makes you happy! Don’t feed into them!
Study computer science. Lots of programming jobs and free courses on TH-cam.
@@Quilt4Joy Bad advice
When you apply for new jobs, don't bad mouth your current employer, just say you want to move on. Give yourself credit for what you do, don't just say on applications/resumes/interviews that you're a cleanor/custodian. Tell them you're a truck unloader, freight processor, inventory checker, warehouse equipment operator, recycling lead (you gather recycling materials), maintenance technician (you fix things).
Tell hiring managers you're willing to learn, are open minded, a team player. Whatever new job you take, give it your all, be positive, it usually takes up to 3 months to get acclimated/up to speed to a new job. High five for having the guts to become a job seeker!
THANK YOU FOR BEING HONEST
Did u have prior experince before becoming a janitor?
Other than doing chores around my house as a kid and keeping my house clean as an adult? Not at all.
@@gerrensprauve2520 I dont know what it is but its not as easy to land a custodial job as i thought.
Have you ever seen willy's wonderland with nick cage?
I was a janitor for a high school worst experience i ever had
$11 an hour Is the pay in 2023 ...i have to clean half of that high school And I ask for a raise They told me that will fire me if I ever talk about money again😮😢 and they never paid me my bonus check i was supposed to get
Sounds like it wasn’t the role you were in, but the people you work with/for.
I’m sorry about that. To be threatened for asking for a raise is ridiculous.