Linear games guide a player down a path with a specific sequence of events.
A “sandbox” game, on the other hand, is one that offers a high degree of freedom.
The open-ended environment allows players to explore and create their own experiences.
The actions taken in the game can lead to unplanned and unique scenarios.
The journey a player takes is self-directed, offering a unique blend of challenge and creativity.
There are boundaries and rules to be followed, but the possible paths are endless.
No two “games” will be played the same way.
My Perspective
When we talk about our lives and careers, we often describe a linear progression.
The career path.
The expected “life path” – college, good job, marriage, children, retirement, and so on.
Yet, life isn’t linear.
I believe it’s time to talk about our career sandbox.
Because that is how it works.
We have a high degree of freedom, and the options are open-ended.
Applying the sandbox concept isn’t about abandoning structure or planning.
It’s about recognizing that we have the tools to shape our own journey.
It’s about allowing us the freedom to explore, create, and learn.
It’s discovering what is meaningful.
It’s how we want to show up in the world.
In the end, life is the ultimate sandbox.
We can embrace the mindset and start shaping our lives.
Explore with a sense of wonder and possibility.
Many of the most fulfilling achievements are often the ones we create for ourselves.
The question we need to consider is, what will we build?
Your Turn
Does thinking about your career and life through this lens change your perspective?
How do you think about the future with this mindset? What do you want to build?