We all live in bubbles.
The structures, expectations, and routines of our life form the bubbles.
We know the world from inside these places, but often miss what’s on the outside.
The longer we live in one place, work for one company, or stay in one occupation, the thicker the bubble.
The world is moving – quickly – and it’s easy to miss different perspectives.
One bubble that is both fascinating and troubling to me is the corporate career.
Inside the bubble, there are structures and perspectives that are disappearing outside.
The bubble views are held by both employees and leadership.
Here are just a few of the corporate bubbles.
The One Company Bubble
Some still believe we find a job in our field, hire in at a company, and stay until retirement.
Yet, retirement, pensions, and company loyalty are declining at a rapid pace.
Moving around increases perspective.
We can always go back to a company and contribute with newly acquired knowledge.
The One Occupation Bubble
This bubble has us stuck in “what we’ve always done”.
Based on the industry or occupation where we began our career, we believe that we must stay in the field or “lose” all the experience.
This is largely false.
In fact, expanding knowledge into other areas can make us better at our primary career.
The 40-Hour Week Bubble
This one is widespread.
The bubbles believe that knowledge workers work “9-5 Monday through Friday”.
While part-time is an option at some companies, it’s seen as the choice for those who are caring for young children or aging parents – not the mainstream team.
With budgets tight and employees looking for flexibility, it’s amazing this bubble is so strong & intact.
The in Office Bubble
It’s hard to believe this is still a bubble considering many worked from home for at least a year.
Yet, we are still having conversations debating if remote work can be successful.
This is a bubble that will take time to burst.
Popping the Bubbles
Looking outside the bubble, employers and employees could design new structures that would better fit today’s business needs and the lifestyle needs of the team.
The list of trends and concepts to consider is long.
Rise in freelance workers.
The emergence of the Fractional CMO/CTO/etc.
Hiring for tasks not titles.
Individuals looking to diversify their income portfolio.
My Perspective
In my opinion, it’s time to start popping bubbles.
We need innovation.
Companies need to define new work contracts that are more than 40-hour FTE roles.
They need to consider project structures instead of functional structures.
Shake it up.
Employees need to become Me-EOs who take control of their career and life in new ways.
They need to oversee their income, personal brand, and purpose.
Defining a life that fits for them.
Your Turn
What bubbles do you see around you where people are stuck in one worldview?
What could you do to start challenging those perspectives and define a better way?
Do you feel stuck inside of bubbles where you want to learn more about alternatives?