Breaking the Mould: Going Your Own Way in a Diversifying Working World

Life collectively comprises of certain milestones and events (or a selection of such) for a good chunk of the population. Yet in a world that is continually diversifying, at an ever-increasing rate, the ‘standard’ path through life appears to be less straightforward than it once was. With digital technology, increased ease of travel, and greater awareness of global opportunities - particularly among younger generations - a plethora of different life options are beginning to present themselves. As a result, a growing number of people are making alternative life choices that diverge from previous social expectations.

Deviation from the ‘standard’ is perhaps presently most visible in the workplace. In recent years, the jobs market has mutated considerably, thanks in large part to the evolution of technology and the globalisation of labour and resources. Whereas previous generations might have expected to stay in the same job for a number of years, moving between roles and companies over the course of a career is now commonplace in modern society. With less job security and a greater degree of competition for positions, there is an increasing prevalence of individuals accessing alternative forms of work, through a variety of different mediums. But what are the options for going your own way in a diversifying working world? Here are three popular possible avenues for breaking the mould:

1. Small Business Ownership

Recent research indicated a national rise in small businesses, with more people turning from traditional forms of employment to entrepreneurial ways of making a living. Venturing down such an avenue requires a certain amount of financing and so, of course, is not without risk. Identifying both the resources and characteristics required to get a small business off the ground is therefore crucial to both initial and sustained success of any new independent venture.

Also important is finding a niche - creating something needed, rather than something you are simply interested in on a personal level. Ensuring you have enough personal passion for the business you are launching is, of course, critical to seeing it through from initial idea to implementation; however, it is essential that the business meets a gap in the market and may, therefore, be utilised and supported to ultimately succeed.

Charles Walton offers insight into the realities of small business ownership, detailing the personal traits of a successful business owner, and highlighting the complex nature of launching and sustaining your own independent endeavour. Small business ownership clearly isn’t for the faint-hearted and certainly requires a good deal of hard work. Yet there are a number of significant benefits to being your own boss that make owning and operating a small business an increasingly attractive prospect to many. These are something to consider before making the transition for your own plans.

2. Freelancing

Once upon a time, freelancing might have been viewed as insecure work undertaken as a last resort by those unable - or unwilling - to find longer-term employment. Thankfully, attitudes have changed considerably as the art of freelancing has evolved. In the so-called ‘gig economy,’ there has been a meteoric rise in individuals freelancing in a variety of different areas. Freelancing can thus now be seen for what it truly is - a legitimate way to earn an income from the comfort of your own chosen location.

There are many fields in which freelancing work is now not only common but even the norm – from the creative-oriented professions such as journalism or advertising to labour-based jobs such as plumbing and DIY. Moreover, with online domains and digital platforms such as Uber, there are countless ways to enter into and establish yourself within the freelancing world. Through accurate and committed research into the field, freelancing can be the ideal solution for you and your idea. The lifestyle of a freelancer differs somewhat from the standard nine to five so considering the implications, if there would be any, is certainly worth it before venturing into this line of work.

The beauty of freelance work is that it can fit around other commitments and allows individuals to work at a pace suited to personal need. Established freelancers can dictate their own workload and even be choosy about what work to take on and when. The greatest attraction of freelancing is undoubtedly the flexibility of all aspects of this lifestyle. Freelancing necessitates a certain degree of self-discipline and perseverance, but the benefits to be had can be numerous.

3. Becoming a Digital Nomad

The term ‘digital nomad’ was coined in the 1990s but has recently risen to prominence due to a surge in individuals adopting this particular way of life. Similar to freelancing, being a digital nomad allows for ad hoc work from a remote location. Yet whereas freelancers may largely work from one set place (i.e., home), digital nomads tend to switch up their destinations. They may work from wherever accommodation is cheap, the Wi-Fi reliable, and the lifestyle optimal.

By their very definition, digital nomads live nomadically. Unlike some forms of freelancing, work is conducted entirely via telecommunications and is therefore usually reliant on Internet access. Digital nomads are entirely independent of location, and an increasing number operate from overseas, mixing work with pleasure. The digital nomad lifestyle appears to be particularly appealing to those with a lust for travel, with such work allowing itchy-footed individuals to explore the world for extended periods of time while still earning money. However, there is really no set persona for the digital nomad, with the practice attracting everyone from those fresh out of university to those at retirement age.

Just like owning a small business or freelancing, establishing yourself as a successful digital nomad may be reliant on a handful of personal characteristics. A strong work ethic, technological literacy, and a competitive desire to succeed are all essential for longevity. If you thrive on seeking out your own projects and love the idea of making a living while seeing the world, this could well be a road to travel down.