Rat Race

A rat race is an endless, self-defeating, or pointless pursuit. It conjures up the image of the futile efforts of a lab rat trying to escape while running around a maze or in a wheel. In an analogy to the modern city, many rats in a single maze expend a lot of effort running around, but ultimately achieve nothing (meaningful) either collectively or individually.

This is often used in reference to work, particularly excessive or competitive 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.

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 family life and/or friends 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
• 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 6 and a long commute.
• Working from home.
• Becoming financially independent from an employer.
• Entering professions such as teaching/motivational speaking