2021: the year to make a life-altering job and career decisions?

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected how many people think about their work life and how they are spending their time and energy. Dr Clara de Inocencio Laporta, a social and organisational psychologist at the School of Psychology, is an expert in the theory of callings and has suggested how in 2021 we may see more individuals pursuing vocations they are passionate about. She said:

‘Covid-19 has recast how many people think about their careers. Suddenly, family and friendships have grown in importance, and many people have re-evaluated what matters most. Covid-19 has cost millions of people their jobs, but the pandemic is also having an impact on a growing number of people who had the fortune of keeping their positions. Many young professionals across countries and industries are deciding to change companies, switch sectors, re-train or even set up their own businesses. There is a renewed interest in spending one’s life doing meaningful, fulfilling work that contributes to the world in a more direct way.’

Work-life balance

‘Many people have made life-altering decisions about how they spend a large portion of their lives, making important job and career transitions to occupations that make the world a better place. This trend also suggests that in times of crisis and uncertainty, our tendency is to draw closer together, even in serving each other through our work. The tendency towards more purpose-driven jobs and careers was well underway before COVID-19, but it has gained many subscribers after the pandemic.

‘The shift to working from home has also played a part, stripping away some of the things that boosted job satisfaction. Even people who thought they had ‘dream jobs’ before Covid-19 are reflecting on what these amount to now that they are working from their kitchens or bedrooms. While we may be attracted by the perks of a job like travel or a designer office, these can be distractions masking the more significant meaning we get from our work.’

Sense of purpose

‘People with callings find that that their work is meaningful and has a positive impact on others. Those with callings often feel that their work makes the world a better place, which provides a strong sense of purpose and meaning, as well as resilience. Recent research shows that this kind of individual purpose is among the core factors having a disproportionate impact on employee well-being and work effectiveness during the pandemic. A career that is fulfilling can act as a buffer against the stress that has accompanied the pandemic and make workers more resilient to adapt in the face of constant change. The trend towards more purpose-driven jobs and careers was well underway before Covid-19, but it has gained many subscribers during the pandemic.’

Wellbeing and optimism

‘Generally, students and workers who view their career path as a calling have higher wellbeing, life satisfaction, and life meaning. They also find their work and studies more rewarding, enjoyable and satisfying, performing at higher levels than their peers. Most people with callings demonstrate good psychological health, optimism and mastery goals. They are also more resilient facing career challenges, adversity and failure because they have a clear idea of ‘why’ they do what they do as well as its value and impact for others.’