“It’s hard work because my bones and lower back hurt, but I manage my money well and I can buy food for my dogs. That’s enough for me,” said Argentine Daniel Córdoba.
In society, stereotypes still persist, guiding people on how to act, what decisions to make, and which paths to avoid, even when there’s nothing wrong with them. Sometimes, just to fit into social norms, people set aside their interests, opportunities, and even their goals.
However, just as there are people who go with the flow of public opinion, there are also those who break these stigmas. That’s the case of a young man from Comodoro Rivadavia, in the province of Chubut, Argentina, who has gained attention for his unusual line of work.
Without caring about criticism or judgment, Daniel Córdoba decided to work cleaning homes and office spaces because it allows him to earn a steady income.
“The job is from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and it was my boss—who owns a law firm—who suggested I clean his offices at a time when I was going through a very difficult period after my mother passed away,” Daniel told TN. That’s how, three years ago during the pandemic, he started in this line of work—and never stopped.
He first cleaned that law office, then a hair salon, later a bar, and even his boss’s daughter’s house, according to the Argentine outlet.
“She couldn’t do much physical effort. He asked me if I’d be willing to go once a week to clean her house. I had my doubts and fears, but I never had any problems. After that, recommendations started coming in—word of mouth—from people who didn’t even know me,” he explained.
Although he began studying to become an accountant, he didn’t finish his degree and ended up sticking with this job, though he had done other kinds of work before alongside his mother.
“Fortunately, I rent from my dad, who charges me less and doesn’t pressure me to pay on a specific date. It came up at a time when I wanted to live on my own, and my parents preferred I stay there, in an apartment that had just become available. If I had to rent somewhere else, I wouldn’t be able to afford it,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of making time in his life to be with friends, go out for dinner, or simply rest. “I also need time alone, at home, watching TV,” he added.