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WORKING TOWARDS THE FUTURE

The world is changing rapidly and the way we work is changing even more. Having a job for life just does not happen anymore. Economic instability, ever increasing technology and the ever increasing choices available to us add uncertainty to our working life.

A recent survey by the Sydney Morning Herald found 98% of respondents viewed job satisfaction as the most important aspect of their work, but only 12% said they were truly satisfied with their jobs.

In the US, a survey conducted by consultant Steve Covey found 42% of people felt "life is a treadmill and they can't get off".

So how do we cope with the demands of change and keep ourselves happy and satisfied?

People are beginning to redefine themselves and are focusing on meaningful priorities. The increasing dissatisfaction with balance in life is a global trend and is already changing the way we work.

Findings from the recent Australian Association of Career Counsellors conference forecast that 70% of the jobs we'll be doing in 2020 haven't even been invented yet. It is also predicted that in 5 to 10 years, only 50% of jobs will be full-time.

We're moving towards "portfolio careers", in which we might pursue several different careers throughout our lives, or several part-time jobs at once. For instance, you might be educated in accounting yet your career combines consultant accounting for small business from home, an interest in painting allows you to sell works through a local gallery and you might write and illustrate children's counting books.

Again, it's about combining your interests with work to earn enough money to match your desired lifestyle. The result might still be work but you'll enjoy it much more and have a greater interest in what you're doing. It's also more stimulating, and a proven psychological fact that the use of multiple skills and interests reduces stress.

Ian Hutchinson (G.Dip.Psy, B.Bus, APS), Founder of Life by Design®, has built a reputation as Australia's leading lifestyle strategist. He has studied overseas with some of the world's leaders in lifestyle planning, and his lifestyle strategy work has been profiled throughout the media. His entertaining presentations are in demand throughout the world including Europe and the Middle East. Life by Design® can be contacted by phone on (02) 9979 4949, or visit www.lifebydesign.com.au.

For permission to reproduce this article article in whole or in part,
contact Tanya Mottl on may be contacted by
phone (+ 612) 9979 4949, fax (+ 612) 9979 4969,
or email info@lifebydesign.com.au

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