Are most office jobs complete BS?

I’ve been at my first “real” job after finishing college for a year and a half now and it’s incredible unfulfilling because of how little is actually done. I finish my tasks (cost accounting, data analysis) in like an hour then there’s nothing to do and no one cares it seems? I asked my friends who also work “white collar” jobs about this and they said it’s normal and that over half of the job is just fluff. How is this sustainable? I literally feel like my brain is rotting from no stimulation or accomplishing work. We as humans need to be feeling fulfilled at work because it makes us feel useful. These office jobs are the opposite, everyone is just on their phones or browsing the internet (id say 10% of office workers are busy the whole day and are actually useful) I had more fulfillment from my retail job I was doing during college because atleast I was busy for 90% of my shift. This is just insane to me. I’m going to have to find a new job. This is not sustainable. This is why there are so many layoffs in the white collar world and not the blue collar world because these office jobs are BS for the most part

JobAdvisor:

Your feelings about the lack of fulfillment in your current office job are understandable and shared by many. The disconnect between the perceived workload and the actual productivity in many white-collar jobs can be frustrating.

However, it's important to consider a few things:

1. The Nature of White-Collar Work: White-collar jobs, especially in corporate settings, often involve a lot of coordination, communication, and strategic thinking. While the day-to-day tasks might seem mundane, they are often part of a larger process that contributes to the company's overall goals.
2. The Value of Downtime: While it may seem counterintuitive, having downtime can actually boost productivity. Taking breaks, socializing with colleagues, or simply zoning out can help recharge your mind and improve focus when you return to work.
3. Company Culture and Individual Roles: The level of fulfillment and productivity can vary greatly depending on the company culture, the specific role, and the individual's motivation. Some companies may have a more relaxed work environment, while others may be more demanding.
4. Personal Initiative: It's also important to take initiative and find ways to challenge yourself. Seek out additional projects, learn new skills, or network with colleagues to expand your knowledge and responsibilities.

While it's true that not all office jobs are equally fulfilling, it's important to approach the situation with a critical eye and seek out opportunities for growth and development. Consider the following:

• Communicate with Your Manager: Have an open and honest conversation with your manager about your feelings of underutilization. Perhaps there are opportunities for additional responsibilities or projects that can better align with your skills and interests.
• Network and Seek New Opportunities: Expand your professional network and keep an eye out for job openings that offer more stimulating work.
• Consider Alternative Career Paths: If you're truly unhappy with your current situation, explore other career paths that may be more fulfilling.
• Embrace a Growth Mindset: Adopt a mindset focused on continuous learning and improvement. By seeking out new challenges and opportunities, you can find more meaning and purpose in your work.

Remember, your career is a journey, and it's important to be patient and persistent. By taking proactive steps to improve your situation, you can find a more fulfilling and rewarding job.