The Rise of the 'Slashie': Navigating Multiple Careers in the Modern World
"Is juggling various jobs the future of work, or a sign of economic unease? We delve into the complexities of polyactivity."
In an era defined by rapid change and evolving work landscapes, the concept of a single, lifelong career is increasingly becoming a relic of the past. The modern professional is often a multifaceted individual, juggling various roles and responsibilities in a phenomenon known as 'polyactivity.' But what does it truly mean to live a polyactive life, and is it a choice or a necessity?
Bernard Lahire, in his work 'The Plural Man,' highlights the duality of the actor in career theories: the unified actor versus the fragmented one. Today's hypermodern society seems to favor the latter, celebrating the 'Subject of its Time'—an individual capable of navigating the impermanence of contemporary institutions with a penchant for change. This has led to the rise of the 'slashie,' someone who is a writer/designer/consultant all in one.
This article delves into the reality of polyactivity, questioning whether the prevailing narrative of the 'plural Subject' is genuinely empowering or merely a reflection of economic and social pressures. Drawing on an empirical study of 'intermittent workers,' we examine the experiences of individuals who have consciously chosen to navigate the complexities of multiple jobs and explore whether they are, in fact, freer or more constrained than their traditionally employed counterparts.
The Intermittent Worker: A Case Study in Polyactivity
Our research focuses on a group of former corporate employees, primarily consultants and engineers, who have abandoned traditional careers in favor of a more flexible, albeit precarious, lifestyle. These 'intermittent workers' sought to escape the confines of corporate life, trading stability for the freedom to pursue diverse interests and activities. Their experiences offer valuable insights into the realities of polyactivity and its impact on individual well-being.
- The Allure of the Coast: Many intermittent workers gravitated towards coastal regions, drawn by the promise of a more relaxed lifestyle and access to outdoor activities.
- Embracing Flexibility: They embraced temporary and part-time employment, often in roles unrelated to their previous qualifications.
- The Importance of 'Making Do': This involved accepting a lower income and developing a resourceful approach to finances.
Is Polyactivity a Path to Freedom or a New Form of Constraint?
Ultimately, the question remains: is polyactivity a liberating force that empowers individuals to shape their own destinies, or is it a reflection of a precarious economic landscape that leaves them with little choice? While the intermittent workers in our study found a degree of fulfillment in their chosen lifestyles, their experiences also highlight the challenges and trade-offs involved. Moving forward, it is crucial to recognize the diverse motivations and experiences of polyactive individuals and to address the systemic issues that may drive them towards this increasingly prevalent way of working.