Shift from being employed to creating value

“School prepares for the alienating institutionalization of life by teaching the need to be taught.”

From the moment we become walking human beings we get exposed to the concept of ‘job role’. We get asked at school or at home “What would you like to become when you grow up?” Depending on the books we read, the movies we watch and what the adults around us do, we give a response for a job role of our liking or simply reply “I Don’t Know” putting us in uncomfortable shoes already at early age.

Then we grow from class to class and the more we approach the end of our school life the more we get confronted with the crucial life choice – what job do you really want to do?

At the phase when our brains are still developing and we are figuring out who we are, we are required to choose. Why? Because that is how we set up our economic and social systems to guarantee certainty and predictability of people being employed, of businesses staying in operation and a society that survives. And this ‘job’-focus worked both in the industrial and information-driven age, paving paths and bringing prosperity for many people.

But times changed.

With all the technology developments, open borders and younger generations that seek purpose-driven life, the concepts of ‘job role’ and employment lose their appeal and relevance.

In modern times, we shift from employees to creators, from selling time for money to actively creating value. The gig economy, freelancing opportunities, and entrepreneurship, enabled by accessible technology and connectivity, have become viable career alternatives. The traditional notion of job security gives way to the promise of self-fulfillment and purpose-driven work, interwoven with “I Don’t Know”.

As the boundaries between work and life blur, we are embracing the freedom to shape our careers and livelihoods, placing a premium on innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of meaningful contributions to society. In this shift as creators, we embrace a sense of empowerment, charting our own paths and making a meaningful impact, not just in our own lives, but also in the broader context of our communities and the global stage.

The question of “What job role are you preparing for?” needs to shift today to

“What lights you up?”

"What purpose are you living?"

“Whom do you want to become as a person?”

“How do you wish to create value and impact?”

“How to pave a career path aligned with personal strengths and values?”

Answering these questions is not a one-time fixed exercise; it rather requires time and exploration full of steps, self-reflection, and learnings.

Creating value

The concept of creating value is rooted in the belief that each of us possess unique talents, skills, and passions that can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact. Unlike traditional employment, which often comes with predefined roles and limitations, the pursuit of creating value allows us to define our own path.

One of the most significant advantages of this approach is the liberation it offers. Instead of adhering to someone else's vision, we become the architects of our destiny. We can channel our creativity, expertise, and aspirations into projects and initiatives that resonate with our core values. Whether it's starting a business, pursuing a creative endeavor, or engaging in social or environmental causes, the possibilities are endless.

Creating value is also synonymous with personal growth and continuous learning. In the process of building something meaningful, we are exposed to challenges, setbacks, and triumphs. We learn to adapt, innovate, and persevere. It's a journey that fosters resilience and self-discovery, helping us evolve not only as professionals but as individuals.

Moreover, the act of creating value often extends beyond personal fulfillment. It contributes to the greater good, benefiting communities, society, and the environment. By addressing unmet needs or solving pressing problems, we become catalysts for positive change. We forge connections, inspire others, and build a legacy that transcends our immediate presence.

However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the path of creating value is not without its uncertainties and risks. Unlike traditional employment, there may not be a steady paycheck or the security of a corporate safety net. It requires vision, determination, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

The shift from seeking employment to creating value represents a profound transformation in how we perceive and pursue our purpose. It's about recognizing that each of us has the potential to leave an indelible mark on the world, not by fitting into predefined roles but by forging our unique path. While it may be unconventional and challenging, the rewards in terms of personal fulfillment and positive impact are immeasurable. Ultimately, the journey of creating value is an invitation to explore the depths of our potential and to live a life that is truly purpose-driven.

Ready to explore your unique path of creating value from a space of authenticity and fulfillment?