Why a Non-Linear Career Trajectory is NOT a Bad Thing

Why a Non-Linear Career Trajectory is NOT a Bad Thing When I was in high school, I was expected to pick a career path, study for it, and then—presumably—stick with it for the rest of my life. The idea was simple: choose wisely, because this decision would determine my future. But life doesn’t work like that. Like many people today, my career trajectory has been anything but linear. I’ve studied engineering, business, and complex systems. I’ve worked in different countries, shifted industries, changed work styles, and even taken pay cuts in pursuit of something different or more meaningful.  At times, this has been incredibly frustrating—especially because of the pressure I put on myself to hit certain milestones. But the more I tried to force a rigid path, the more I realised: this mindset is toxic. The idea that life is a straight-line race, where success is measured by how quickly you move up a single ladder, is outdated.  In reality, careers are dynamic, and the most fulfilling ones embrace exploration rather than a rigid trajectory. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “falling behind” because your career hasn’t followed a predictable path, this article is for you. The Traditional Career Model is Breaking Down   For decades, the standard career model followed a simple formula: Choose a career in high school. Study for it. Get an entry-level job. Climb the corporate ladder. Retire. That model no longer reflects reality Here’s why: Technological advancements have rapidly changed industries, making many jobs obsolete while creating entirely new fields. The gig economy has normalised freelance, contract, and multi-career work. Economic shifts have made long-term employment with a single company far less common. Changing values have led people to prioritise fulfillment and flexibility over traditional notions of job security. Job hopping is the norm, often leading to better pay and learning.   I also really like what Emilie Wapnick, author of How to Be Everything, calls multipotentialites—people with multiple interests and career paths.  She argues that forcing people to specialise in one thing for life ignores how many of us are wired to thrive in multiple disciplines. For those of us who have changed careers (or want to), this is good news. Why the Non-Linear Career Trajectory is the New Normal 1. Lifelong Learning is the New Job Security The idea that a single degree will carry you through an entire career is outdated. In today’s world, adaptability is more valuable than rigid specialisation. 2. Multi-Career Professionals are Thriving Take it from these guys: Brandon Stanton, creator of Humans of New York, worked in finance before losing his job and deciding to pursue photography and storytelling. Lisa Congdon was in her late 30s when she transitioned from working in education to becoming a professional artist and illustrator. Bozoma Saint John, a high-profile marketing executive, started in healthcare marketing before moving into the music and entertainment industry, later holding executive roles at Apple, Uber, and Netflix. 3. Remote and Flexible Work Have Changed the Game The traditional 9-to-5, office-based career is no longer the only option. More people are working remotely, freelancing, or creating portfolio careers that combine multiple income streams. We’re no longer tied to geography. 4. We Are Not the Same People at 40 as We Were at 18 At least, I hope not!  Expecting an 18-year-old to choose a lifelong career is unfair. We grow, change, and develop new interests. Isn’t it normal that our careers evolve too? I think we’re waking up to that realisation as a collective. My Non-Linear Career Trajectory: From Engineering to Existential Risk For most of my life, I believed success meant following a straight path. I started in civil engineering, where I excelled academically (though I had little interest in it. A story for another time). I went into complex systems engineering, industrial waste management, business, and more.  Now, I’m focusing on research into existential risks like AI and biotechnology. An interest I hope to monetise after the completion of my studies. A non-linear career trajectory, to say the least! But these shifts came with challenges: A self-imposed pressure to “succeed” quickly. I constantly worried that I was “falling behind.” Financial trade-offs. Some transitions meant taking a pay cut or starting over in a new field. The fear of looking unreliable. Would employers see my shifts as a lack of commitment?   I can’t speak to any of these points with “hindsight” because I still have days when I feel scared, pressured, or regretful.  What I can say is that the mindset that life is a race—where success is measured by speed and linearity—is deeply toxic.  I know in my heart that exploration, not rigidity, leads to a more fulfilling life. But there are times when changing careers is not necessarily the right thing –  When a Non-Linear Career Can Be Difficult (or Even a Bad Thing) While non-linear careers offer freedom and growth, they also come with challenges. Here are a few: 1. Financial Instability Frequent career shifts without financial planning can be risky.  Solution: Build a financial cushion before making major changes. 2. Lack of Direction Not everyone thrives with multiple career pivots.  Solution: Have a guiding purpose, even if it’s broad (e.g., problem-solving, creativity, social impact) can help you build a more coherent portfolio of work. 3. Social Stigma Some people (especially older generations) see frequent career changes as flaky.  Solution: Learn to frame your career shifts as a strength—highlight your adaptability and transferable skills. 4. Imposter Syndrome Switching fields can make you feel like you’re always a beginner.  Solution: Recognise that expertise builds over time. Being a generalist is an asset in today’s world. 5. Workplace Biases Some industries still favour linear resumes.  Solution: Tailor your resume and narrative to emphasise how your diverse experience adds value. How to Stay Grounded When Your Career Feels Like It’s Falling Apart It’s one thing to embrace a non-linear career path when things are exciting and full of possibility. But what about when your career seems to be going backward instead of forward? Maybe you’ve taken a pay cut, lost

Do you need to be smart to be successful? (Science Answers)

From a young age, we’re taught to value intelligence above almost everything else. Ace your tests, get into a good college, land a high-paying job – the formula for success seems pretty straightforward.  And with job requirements ballooning to include more and more degrees, it’s easy to believe that smarts are the ultimate ticket to the top.  But is it really that simple?  Do you need to be smart to be successful? Does intelligence make you more likely to achieve career triumph and life satisfaction?  My good people, here’s what the science says. I will start with a caveat* As a society, we have generally equated being smart with a person’s IQ score or their level of education.  I don’t necessarily agree that intelligence is what makes a person “smart”, but it is this perspective that the blog post will explore. Is education the key to success? As a child with immigrant parents, I grew up with a particular emphasis on education. “Get a good education, and you’ll be set for life.” “Education is the one thing that you will always have. It’s the one thing you can always fall back on.” But is that really true?  A Shifting Educational Goalpost The bar for entry into many professions is steadily rising.  What once required a high school diploma now often demands a bachelor’s degree. Some fields even require advanced degrees or specialised certifications.  This trend can be partly attributed to the increasing complexity of modern jobs. However, there’s also what the BBC is calling “degree inflation”. This refers to the increasing demand for college degrees, even for jobs that historically didn’t require them.  Degree inflation can lead to increased student debt as more people pursue higher education. It can also create a skills gap as employers struggle to find and retain workers for certain “middle-skilled” roles (like bookkeeping, for example).  However, while this has its challenges, higher education can also often lead to higher wages. The question is, “Is it worth it?” Does More Education Mean More Success? Research consistently shows that individuals with advanced degrees tend to earn more over their lifetimes, allowing for a better quality of life.  It’s also predicted that, by 2031, around 72% of all future jobs are going to require post-secondary training, and at least 42% of jobs a college degree. Studies have also linked higher education to improved health outcomes and increased life expectancy.  Factors such as better access to healthcare, healthier lifestyle choices, and lower stress levels associated with higher-paying jobs contribute to this correlation. So, do you need to be smart to be successful?  Well, it’s not all black and white. And the nuance comes in the details. A degree in a high-demand field with strong earning potential may be a sound investment.  But pursuing a degree in a saturated field with lower earning prospects may not yield all the abovementioned rewards.  Carefully weighing the potential costs, including tuition, fees, and lost income, against the expected benefits is crucial in making an informed decision. You don’t ONLY need to be smart to be successful: The other factors While book smarts are undoubtedly a valuable asset, they are far from being the sole determinant of success. Numerous other factors contribute significantly to an individual’s achievements.  In fact, they likely make a lot more of a difference than just a high IQ. Grit: Passion x Resilience x Consistency We all know or have heard of incredibly intelligent individuals who never quite reached their full potential. Conversely, many highly successful people aren’t necessarily considered geniuses.  The secret to their success, according to psychologist Angela Duckworth, often lies in their grit – their perseverance, passion, determination, and consistency.  Consistency, especially, is often overlooked in favor of flashy talent or intelligence.  However, it’s the ability to show up day after day, consistently putting in the effort, that truly sets people apart.  This unwavering commitment to long-term goals, coupled with the ability to bounce back from setbacks, is a powerful predictor of success. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H14bBuluwB8 Emotional Intelligence: The Overlooked Smarts Intelligence is about understanding and processing information, while emotional intelligence is about understanding and managing emotions.  It may seem like meaner, tougher personalities are those that succeed, but it isn’t true. In fact, emotional intelligence (or EQ) is a better predictor of success than IQ! This ability to recognise and regulate one’s own emotions, as well as empathise with others, is crucial for achieving personal and professional goals. Other Factors: Environment, Network, and Luck While individual qualities are essential, external factors also play a massive role in shaping success.  Growing up in a supportive environment, having access to quality education can provide invaluable advantages.  Of course, there is also the lucky people who can pull the “do you know who my daddy is?” card. They have the power of a strong network. These things are often not up to us, but it is never too late to try and improve your environment and network (scholarships, apprenticeships, etc. can do wonders!). Additionally, a degree of luck or favorable circumstances can influence outcomes. (Lottery, anyone?) However, it’s important to remember that while these factors can impact success, they don’t define it.  Ultimately, personal drive and resilience are the qualities that truly make a difference. Cultivating a Growth Mindset Along with education, a growth mindset is essential for lifelong learning and adaptation.  Individuals with a growth mindset believe their abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. They embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learn from setbacks. By cultivating a growth mindset, individuals become more resilient, adaptable, and open to new experiences.  The Importance of Lifelong Learning The pace of change in today’s world necessitates continuous learning. What was relevant yesterday may be obsolete tomorrow. To stay competitive and fulfill one’s potential, individuals must commit to lifelong learning. This involves staying curious, seeking out new knowledge and skills, and adapting to evolving circumstances. By embracing a lifelong learning mindset, individuals can unlock new opportunities and maintain a sense of purpose throughout their lives. Final Thoughts Education and “being smart” is undoubtedly

14 Careers AI will replace (and 19 careers it can’t)

If you’ve been Googling “careers AI will replace”, then you’ve probably seen the headlines: “AI is coming for your job (unless you’re a plumber, of course)!” It’s enough to make you want to trade in your laptop for a welding torch. There’s also the complete opposite: “AI will make everyone’s lives better.” Usually touted by the silicon bros. So, which one is it? Is AI a job-stealing overlord or your new best work buddy? Well, before you panic-enroll in plumbing school or computer science, let’s take a deep breath and separate fact from fear-mongering.   Types of careers AI will replace So, which jobs are really in the AI crosshairs? What are the types of careers AI will replace? Well, while it’s tempting to imagine robot baristas and computer-guided brain surgery, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Jobs most likely to be disrupted share a few common traits: they’re often repetitive, data-heavy, and require a predictable decision-making process. These roles tend to involve tasks that can be broken down into specific steps and algorithms, making them prime targets for automation. Think about those jobs where you find yourself performing similar actions day in and day out. If it’s something a computer could potentially learn to do faster and more accurately, then it’s a role that might see some AI disruption.   14 Careers AI will replace in the near future Here are a few careers AI will replace, potentially completely and perhaps even soon.Data-Driven Roles1. Data entry clerks2. Statistical clerks3. Bookkeepers and accountants4. Financial analysts5. Market research analysts Customer Service and Support6. Telemarketers7. Customer service representatives8. Help desk technicians (like those lovely online bots) Manufacturing and Production9. Assembly line workers10. Quality inspectors11. Logistics coordinators Legal and Administrative12. Paralegals13. Administrative assistants14. Legal assistants Types of careers AI can’t replace (right now) Thankfully, jobs that demand a uniquely human touch are likely to be far more resilient to AI disruption (sorry, engineers!). Roles that require empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability are areas where humans still hold a significant advantage. Consider professions in healthcare, education, and the arts (more on this, later). These fields often involve complex problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills that are challenging to replicate with current technology. While AI can certainly assist in these areas, it’s unlikely to replace the human element entirely. Until, of course, AI develops superintelligence and kills us all. (Just joking, kinda). Another type of job that is likely safe for the foreseeable future are people who are in manual labour, and I don’t only mean the people in the trades.  Chefs, trainers, and hairdressers are also safe from automation for the next while because robotics that can perform these tasks are currently way too expensive for it to be profitable.   19 Careers that AI can’t replace yet Here are 19 careers AI can’t replace completely anytime soon: Healthcare1. Nurses2. Doctors*3. Therapists4. Dentists Education5. Teachers6. Professors7. Counselors Creative Arts8. Musicians*9. Visual Artists*10. Writers*11. Actors Personal Services12. Hairdressers13. Personal trainers14. Chefs* Trades 15. Plumbers16. Electricians17. Carpenters18. Welders19. Mechanics *These jobs will likely experience severe disruptions through the AI replacement/ enhancement of major tasks. AI and the arts The prompt (Bing image generator): “Paint me the dark, sorrowful scene of Macbeth where they talk about life is full of sound and fury but ultimately signifying nothing out in the Scottish highlands, with Macbeth, the thane of Cawdor, in the style of Monet.” The relationship between AI and the arts is a complex one. And it can often be a touchy subject for artists. But while AI has made significant strides in generating art, music, and literature, thankfully, it remains a tool rather than a replacement for human ingenuity. Humans are drawn to art because it offers a unique window into the human experience. Whether it’s Shakespeare or a Jackson Pollock, whether it’s joy, jealousy, or the deepest sorrow, art’s power to communicate beyond words (even when it’s with words) and what it means to be alive is what sets it apart from AI replicative art. For example, AI can analyse vast datasets of musical compositions to identify patterns and generate new melodies, but it struggles to capture the emotional depth and cultural context that make music truly resonate. Similarly, in the visual arts, AI can create impressive images based on word prompts (see picture above), but it often lacks the conceptual depth and storytelling ability that characterises human-created artwork. So, while AI can be a powerful tool for artists, it cannot replicate the full range of human creativity and expression. What you can do about AI AI isn’t a (always) job killer. In fact, it could be a skill multiplier and time liberator if you know how to use it. Because the real threat isn’t AI replacing your job. It’s people who use AI replacing people who don’t use AI within the same roles.  So, those who embrace AI and develop the skills to harness its potential, in whatever field they’re in, will thrive. Just like our parents adapted to the internet. This technological revolution isn’t about losing jobs but transforming them. Transforming them into less repetitive (i.e. less boring) jobs with a lot more room for creativity and higher thinking. It’s an opportunity to not only secure our professional futures but also enrich our personal lives with the time saved for fun-er tasks. So, sure. You can try to fight it, or you can embrace it. Heck, you can even completely change your career. There are great perks to being a tradesperson. No judgement here. But know that AI is here to stay. And just like the steam engine, electricity, and computers, it’ll likely make our lives a whole lot better. You’re welcome!

Do you have to be mean to be successful? (Science answers)

Do you have to be mean to be successful?  Well, we’ve all heard it, over and over again. So, the answer might seem straightforward: “Nice guys finish last.”  It’s so widely accepted that it’s become a cliché ingrained in our culture for decades.  And let’s be honest, it’s tempting to believe it.  After all, we’ve seen countless movies and TV shows where the sharp-tongued, assertive characters seem to effortlessly climb the corporate ladder, while their kinder counterparts are left behind.  But is this really the case?  Do you have to be mean to be successful? Is being a bit of a jerk actually a prerequisite for making it big?  Let’s dive into the science and separate fact from fiction. Why Psychopathic People Seem to Thrive in Corporate Settings It’s a sobering truth: individuals with psychopathic tendencies often appear to excel in corporate environments.  In a study by psychologist Paul Babiak, around 4% of business leaders fit the definition of “psychopath”. That’s 4x what you find in the general population.  Their lack of empathy, coupled with their ability to manipulate and charm, can give them an unfair advantage.  And thanks to how our culture is set up, they’re often seen as confident, decisive leaders.  But there is a major caveat.  People with psychopathy are attracted to positions of power precisely because dominance is a key characteristic of psychopathy.  So, while these individuals may climb the ladder quickly, their impact on team morale and overall company culture can be extremely detrimental.  In this studied case, when a transformational leader was replaced with a psychopathic one, the results were staff withdrawal, workplace bullying  and high turnover. The Dark Side of Office Politics Okay, so maybe jumping straight to the psychopaths was a little too far.  Let’s talk about the regular mean colleague on your floor. Having highly disagreeable or rude colleagues can have a dramatic effect on office morale.  And while it may be seen as being “tough”, the reality is that fear-based interactions, backstabbing, rumour-mongering, workplace bullying and excessive politicking can stifle creativity and productivity. Which ultimately stifles performance. This is because one of the most important things for a flourishing work environment is something Googlers like to call “psychological safety”.  Without that, you might end up losing your most collaborative co-workers and end up in a team or company that is on it’s way down.  And it’s hard to succeed all on your own. Do you have to be mean to be successful? The idea that you need to be mean to be successful is a harmful myth. While a certain level of assertiveness is essential, it’s important to distinguish between being firm and being mean. Research has consistently shown that kindness, empathy, and collaboration are actually key drivers of success. By prioritising these qualities, we can create healthier, more productive workplaces and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.  So, it’s definitely time to challenge the outdated notion that success is synonymous with aggression. But remember, there’s a huge difference between being kind and being nice.  Redefining What it Means to be Nice: Kindness Over Agreeableness Here’s where I think the confusion comes from.  Often, being kind gets equated with being a pushover. And, of course, pushovers do not tend to do well in a cutthroat corporate world. But there’s a big difference between being kind and being nice.  Kindness is about not being afraid to speak up for yourself, setting boundaries, and treating others with respect.  You do what you have to do on your own terms, without compromising your values. And crucially, you do it with empathy, understanding, and a certain gentleness. Niceness, or agreeableness, on the other hand, is born of fear.  It’s saying what you think the other wants to hear (and not saying what you think will upset them).  If you think about it, being nice and agreeable is not nice at all. It’s a facade and presents a lie to others that doesn’t represent what you really think. So, the kind thing is not to be nice. Redefining Meanness: The Difference Between Being Mean and Being Firm Similarly, meanness and firmness are often confused. Being firm is about setting boundaries, communicating clearly, and standing your ground. It’s about respect for yourself and others. It’s about the truth. Being mean, on the other hand, is about intentionally causing harm, manipulating, or inflicting pain. It’s about power and control. Understanding the difference in intention is crucial to success.  The Importance of Kind Assertiveness Kind assertiveness is the sweet spot between agreeableness and aggression. It’s about expressing your needs and opinions honestly and respectfully, while also considering the feelings of others. It’s about building strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect. And also creating a sterling reputation for having strong and reliable values. Breaking Free from the Nice Girl Trap Women, in particular, are often socialised to prioritise the needs of others over their own. (Add in some intersectionalities and this “niceness” can be amplified manifold).  Continuously prioritising others (no matter how well-intentioned) can lead to a pattern of people-pleasing and difficulty asserting themselves. And the biggest loser in the woman, who has lost all sense of self. It’s time to break free from this “nice girl” stereotype. And practising kind assertiveness is 100% the way. This way, women can achieve both professional and personal success without sacrificing their integrity. Or worse, turning into the stereotypical aggressive a**hole they thing they need to be to succeed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkFC0P71D18

Changing Careers Late in Life: Why & How, with Examples

Changing careers when you’re young can be scary. But changing careers late in life? Well, that can be downright terrifying! I should know, I’ve done both!  First, I abandoned the world of engineering (and all it’s stability and security) for the world of international development.  Then, again more recently (and a lot older), I’ve jumped ship to pursue writing through blogging and writing fiction.  So, I’m a seasoned veteran of the paralysing doubts.  The: “What will people think?”  And “Can I really afford this?”  Let’s be honest, the whole idea of starting over, climbing a new ladder after diligently scaling the first one, can be enough to make anyone break into a cold sweat.  But here’s the thing: I did it, many famous people did it, so you can too!  In this blog post, you’ll hear about why you’re not too old to change careers and how to do it thoughtfully.  I’ll also share not just my story, but also the stories of inspiring individuals who made major career moves later in life, proving that chasing your dreams is possible at any stage of the game Why Changing Careers Late in Life Makes Sense Have you ever stopped to think about how young we are when expected to pick a career path?  At 17 or 18, with limited life experience, how much can we truly know about ourselves and what makes us tick?  Back then, our career choices might have been influenced by external factors like parental pressure, societal expectations, or simply a limited understanding of the working world. (All of the above for me). Fast forward a decade or two, and you’re a completely different person! You’ve gained valuable life experiences, discovered new passions, and maybe even started a family.  Priorities shift.  Maybe money wasn’t a huge motivator back then, but now it’s a top concern.  Perhaps the work-life balance you once craved isn’t as important as the chance to make a real impact.  The point is, our needs and desires evolve, and our careers should too. Bottom line:  A late-career change isn’t a sign of failure, it’s a sign of growth and self-awareness.  It means you’re not afraid to adjust your sails and chart a new course towards a more fulfilling future.  Besides, with lifespans increasing, we have the exciting opportunity to explore different career adventures.  Plus, with more years of experience and potentially better health, making a switch can feel less scary and more empowering.  We only have one life to live, so why not chase the work that sparks joy and ignites your passion? How to Do a Late-Stage Career Change (Properly) Making a career change later in life can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to approach it strategically.  Here are five key steps to guide you through a smooth transition: 1. Know Yourself: Define Your Priorities Before diving into a new field, figure out what it is you really want.  And I’m not only talking about “your passion” if you even know what that is. I’m talking about your ideal working hours and holidays. The flexibility. The pay. The kind of work environment you thrive in (nah-uh to fluorescent lighting!). I’m talking about how you like to work, what management style (if any) agrees with you, and the amount of socialising you can handle (to client-face or not?). Is it the impact you create, the work-life balance, or the intellectual challenge that drives you? Consider using a career coach, therapist, or even journaling and meditation practices.  Identify what truly matters to you.  There are no wrong answers.  So, don’t try to be politically correct. Here’s a good book to help you out: What Colour is Your Parachute? A Guide to a Lifetime of Meaningful Work and Career Success by Richard Bolles 2. Research & Network: Insider Information is Key Don’t rely solely on online descriptions or what you see in the movies! Research your desired field thoroughly. Network with professionals in your target industry. (Buy them a coffee and let them rant honestly about their work). Or conduct more formal informational interviews to get a realistic picture of the day-to-day work and the people you’d be working with.  Watch or read up on “a day in the life of…” content from whatever you want to do. This research step, unfortunately, was one I missed when I went into international development.  I thought I knew what I was signing up for, but the reality was completely different.  It goes to show the importance of talking to real people in the field. (And more than one!)  Ask yourself:  Are these the kind of colleagues I see myself connecting with?  Are their tasks the kinds of tasks I see myself doing?  Are their work problems the kind I’m willing to have?  Do not skimp on this step. It’s even more important when you’re changing careers late in life. Your heart will tell you the truth when you talk to people doing what you think you’d like to do. And your experience will guide you. 3. Leverage LinkedIn & Build Your Skills “LinkedIn? LinkedIn??” I hear you shout at me in disbelief. Yes, LinkedIn! LinkedIn is actually one of my favourite social media tools because its gotten me my last 2 jobs (without trying). It’s also full of lively discussion on interesting topics like workplace behaviour or whatever has been in the news that week. It is also a powerful tool for networking and establishing yourself as a thought leader. (If you use it right!)  Actively participate in industry groups, share valuable content by posting regularly, and connect with professionals in your desired field.  Use this platform to also research necessary qualifications, certifications, or specific skill sets needed to make a successful transition.  By looking at the job descriptions for the positions you’re looking into, or following the people who have your dream job, you’ll know what it takes to transition into your ideal career. 4. Chart Your Course: Be Strategic Carefully consider your current financial situation and