There’s a herd mentality that blue-collar workers are undervalued due to historical stigmas rooted in classism, racism, and gender stereotypes. However, changing attitudes among younger generations suggest a shift towards valuing these roles for their fulfillment and respectability.
In a story previously run by Your Tango, Randi Coleman, a career bartender, addressed the stigma around her profession on TikTok after years of ridicule. At 34, she has been bartending since she was 17. When asked dismissively what she plans to do when she “grows up,” Coleman responded that she’s already doing what she loves and finds lucrative.
She shared earning $6,305 in tips last month alone—amounting to about $82, 000 annually. Despite societal disdain for service jobs compared to salaried roles, Coleman enjoys her work and values the financial stability it provides without overwhelming job stress.
Does she even work 40 hours per week?
That’s sweet money for pouring drinks, tidying the bar table, and listening to folk’s sob stories. Now granted, she appears to be an attractive, charismatic woman, and people – especially men – are probably more likely to tip her a little extra. But make no mistake, it’s quite obvious she’s hard-working, friendly, and excellent at what she does.
Randi is an example of the American Dream.
Incidentally, both presidential candidates, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, support a policy that eliminates taxes on tips.
Perhaps running a website is the wrong side gig? Maybe I should learn to bartend.
@randilcoleman Yes this is the career I have chosen! I have been in the restaurant industry my entire life. I have seen it alllll. And yes I pay my taxes! #salarytransparency #incometransparency #howtosavemoney #cashtips #moneytok #investmenttips ♬ original sound – That bartender girl
