The pandemic led to so many shifts and changes in culture. We see the world and one another in a completely different light. The workforce is an obvious example. More and more people are working two jobs. Moreover, people are not working multiple part-time jobs. People are working multiple full-time jobs or a full-time and a part-time job. Gen Z is definitely leading the way. A recent study shows that 48% of Gen Z are employed at more than one company. In addition, 1/3 of all Boomers and Millennials are employed by more than one company.
The Ever Fluid Workforce
Help wanted signs are everywhere. Companies cannot keep reliable employees. The workforce is fluid and many jobs are being left undone. One evening this week, Amy and I went into a local restaurant that specializes in all things chicken. We paused at the front door to read the sign that let us know that the dining room would be closing at 7:00 PM because they were short staffed. Good help is hard to find, therefore our meal was somewhat below average. It is quite ironic that more people are working multiple jobs, because there are so many jobs being left undone.
The Method to the Madness
Perhaps it is more perception than reality. Maybe people have always had side hustles, but like so many other things, it has become in vogue to say so. What is amazing about the current labor climate in America is that many of the Boomers, Millennials, and Gen Z are hustling to provide themselves with more freedom. They want financial freedom. In addition, they want the freedom to travel, explore, and do what they want to do. It all seems counterintuitive. So in conclusion, I recommend a side hustle. More work leads to more freedom. Freedom leads to more joy. Joy makes for happy girls and boys. Get out there and hustle!
I find joy in being content with what I am already blessed with. For me working hard at only 1 job gives me freedom as well as the time to enjoy my free time. I wonder if this current economy is making a side hustle more of a survival necessity than a financial strategy for the future. Wants and needs are a balancing act- I chose to temper the wants in exchange for contentment and joy in a simple life.