‘What do you want to be when you are older?’ This timeless question seems to be a favorite at school. A few of us know from the offset that we want to be a doctor, a layer or a vet but for the rest of us, indeed the majority, we do not know until later in life. While last century our parents and grandparents may have had one vocation throughout their working journey, currently our career paths chop and change. According to Emilie Wapnick’s TED Talk those who chose to work in more than one sector are called ‘multipotentialites’. In other words, they have the potential to do multiple things. People are no longer seen as a failure for quitting one job and beginning another, they are now seen as ambitious, adventurous and to have a wide range of skills.
Here is why it is okay to have many careers:
Times are changing - with the world population reaching 7.4 billion, technology rapidly advancing and artificial intelligence creeping in, the demand for workers in varying industries is altering. Let’s take a look at history in the 1800s: the primary sector (farming) was the most predominant and then during the industrial revolution the secondary sector (textiles, steel etc.) became more prominent. With an uncertain economy and technological development our careers may change whether we chose them to or not. Consequently, working in more than one job can only be beneficial, demonstrating your ability to adapt to changing markets.
Transferable skills - you will gain skills in one job that you can take to another one. There are an eclectic array of lessons which are applicable to all walks of life. Communication, presentation and time management skills to name a few, will all be of use in the majority of.
Wider picture - working in many sectors will give you an understanding of the wider picture. Instead of being narrow focused in one line of work, you will be able to comprehend the complexity of multiple topics. This can help you to excel in your new job, giving new innovative ideas.
Keep the passion alive - The most important thing is to enjoy and love what you do. If you feel you have got the most out of one job and are not passionate about it anymore it is time to find something else you love. Starting afresh can spark your motivation, getting you fully engaged. When we enjoy things we tend to excel and succeed with them. This is because we are more likely to work harder with them.
Success - Measuring success is subjective, however, if you are happy, financially stable and enjoy your work, one could say you are a success. These things are all possible being someone with multiple career paths. Working in different jobs will keep variety in your life while you also achieve a stable income.
Next time someone says to you swapping jobs all the time means you are indecisive, cannot stick anything out or are not a success, tell them; you are multipotentialite and a success I have seen how many businesses, sectors and industries function.’