Dream jobs are rarely entry-level ones. We all have some vision of success in our minds, but no matter what your vision looks like, you’ll always have to start at a lower level than you want.

Of course, those entry-level positions help get your foot in the door and are necessary steps to move up in your career. But I think these jobs might do more than simply push someone closer to their real career goals. Entry-level jobs remind workers of three important realities that can help them get through the early stages of their careers.