Is Generation Slash ushering in a new era of Working World 5.0?
Take the social media manager who designs costumes in their spare time and works as an extra in films or plays, for example. Or the accountant who loves singing and playing the piano, dreams of performing on the big stage one day?
An increasing number of people want to live their dreams and turn their passions into their profession. Here, the focus here is not on commercial success, but on self-fulfilment and identifying with one’s job. This applies regardless of whether you have learnt this „dream job“, received prior training in it or have even acquired this knowledge yourself.
Individuality and self-fulfilment and creativity are becoming increasingly important to many people. Does the traditional nine-to-five working day no longer play a role? The inner urge to devote oneself to one’s passions professionally and to break new ground is particularly evident in one generation: the „slash“ generation.
According to the Zukunftsinstitut, the mindset of this generation is as multifaceted as a kaleidoscope’s display: colorful, diverse, varied and somewhat unpredictable. This may be a familiar concept, but I believe it is becoming increasingly relevant.
Rather than climbing the career ladder, this generation embraces different discourses in order to expand their knowledge. They are not interested in gaining more power and status based on their position.
So why do so many people still believe that a job is the most fulfilling thing? The answer is very simple: we’re interested in more than one activity. In our free time, we like to walk the dog and then watch a Netflix series or two in the evening – would you want to choose between the two? No, of course not.
So what does this mean for the world of work? Are we already witnessing the beginning of the Work 5.0 ear?
Crises often force us to change, whether we like it or not. In my opinion, we are currently in a decisive phase of this kind. The change in the world of work is now a revolution, not an evolution. Do we therefore need revolutionary measures to withstand this crisis?
Yes! Uncertainty is inevitable in times like this, but we cannot remain in a state of shock forever. at some point (after the initial pause), we will start moving again.
Does that mean it’s time to throw everything away and become a singer? Some might think that person is delusional or reckless – after all, financial security is the top priority. However, the most important question here is: what price do we pay for it?
This is not always an easy question to answer. In difficult times, it’s always about finding happiness and taking control of your life otherwise you will be overwhelmed?
A wise colleague once told me, LOVE IT, CHANGE IT or LEAVE IT!
I still find this saying very apt.
You should therefore ask yourself the following three questions:
- Do I love what I do day in, day out, and is the nine-to-five job right for me?
- Can I change something to bring more happiness and joy in into life and therefore into my job too?
- If the answer to all these questions is NO, then the last resort is to leave.
Please don’t misunderstand, this is not an invitation to give up and resign!
Let’s think about it together: if you answered NO to the first question, you should immediately ask yourself the next question: „Can I change anything about my situation?“
If you’re wondering what your options are, let me give you some insight into my way of thinking:
- You can always change something – starting with the your attitude towards the situation. If you go to the office every day in a bad mood, how can you expect to have a good day?
- Once you have changed your attitude, observe whether your environment changes as a result.
- nyIf you notice a fundamental changes, consider what could make you happier at work. What are you willing to let go of? How could your employer support you in this?
These days, employees are an important asset these days, and employers are often grateful when you come up with suggestions rather than just resigning. Discuss the possibility of becoming a ’slashie‘ by combining work and personal goals through a part-time model, negotiating a four-day week, accepting a contract for work or becoming a freelancer. No matter which option you choose, remember that you are the architect of your own fortune, and that new opportunities often arise when you are open to them.
My conclusion
Being part of Generation Slash, affectionately known as a Slashy, may not always be the easiest route to a successful and happy life.
The purpose of my article is intended to encourage you to ask yourself whether what you are doing is fulfilling – nothing more, nothing less – and perhaps prompt you to consider.
Whatever your thoughts are on this matter, follow your path and pursue your dreams, because only then you will find it easier to do what you want to do. Stand by your principles and address the issues, because it takes courage to take action for progress requires action.