1. Paramedic

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They work unsociable hours, save lives, get abuse and don’t even get paid that much. These days, paramedics spend much of their time dealing with the result of self-inflicted damage by drunks. Yet these guys are the first on the scene and without their rapid response, many lives would be lost.

2. Fireman

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I once saw a fireman rescuing a cat. How great was that – my two favourite things! Seriously, though, these guys really do risk their lives to save others. I love them!

3. Teacher

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There are good teachers and not-so-good teachers, and a few that are truly inspirational. A good teacher can really influence the course of your life. It’s a very undervalued profession, but sadly many in the UK have become disillusioned, as they are given little respect and not allowed to enforce discipline.

4. Paediatrician

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There’s something very cruel about children and babies being struck by serious, even life-threatening illnesses. It’s not something that everyone could cope with in their professional life. So anyone who can dedicate themselves to trying to save premature babies and very sick children is an admirable person.

5. Surgeon

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It’s thanks to the skill of surgeons that my sister and I are both alive today. Whatever their speciality, surgeons do some incredible work, and I am constantly amazed at what they can achieve.

6. Counsellor

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Many of us will have problems at some point in our lives when we can benefit from talking things over with an impartial person. Counselling can really make a massive difference to someone’s life, providing they are committed to change.

7. Politician

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This might seem an odd choice, and on the whole there are very few politicians that I genuinely admire. Yet even in these times of political self-interest, there are still a minority who are sincerely dedicated to public service, particularly on a local level.

8. Animal Welfare

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What better way to make a living than doing something you believe in? For most of us, supporting and working for animal rights and welfare is something we do in our spare time. Those who make it their career, such as vets and campaigners, do a great job to help those who cannot speak for themselves.

9. Caring

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Caring is not a well-paid profession, nor one with great prospects, yet many people do the job simply because they like working with clients and helping them to live a more comfortable life. It’s not something I could do. Could you?

What professions do you admire? Do you despair at the lack of ambition today’s youngsters seem to show? Is there a career that you always wish you’d followed?

Top Photo Credit: powerbook.blog