The system of rewarding time and labor with payment has been around since the beginning of human civilization. This structure of work remains today: time and labor equals money. However, in the 21st century is defined by individuality; people are beginning to want to stray away from the traditional 9-5 employment.
Among the younger generation, 50% aspire to ditch corporate jobs and start their own businesses, leading many to question why entrepreneurship has become so appealing and whether or not it will have a positive impact on the workforce. Well, for one, I think it’s happening because of young people’s desire to stand out. Finding ways to differentiate in appearance, personality or in this case, job, is beginning to trump the traditional appeal of fitting in.
Despite worries that it will offset the labor market, people diverging from normal minimum wage employment is not something to be afraid of. Having the creativity and the means to start a company, band or brand, and seek customers who are willing to pay for products and time is an incredible way to make money while adding a fulfilling aspect to your lifestyle. In fact, I would encourage other teenagers to surge their creativity and create something that defies the typical work experience. Of course, the world still needs workers to perform conventional jobs, but it’s the entrepreneurs that are building the foundation for a future full of discovery and nuance.