Help me understand something. Prices are soaring, inflation is raging and housing costs are through the roof. Yet, 15 million people have quit their jobs and said, “I’m done”.
Where did everybody go? And how are they getting by?
There are a zillion answers. But for most, it meant swapping the 9-to-5 boogie for more work-life balance. As the pandemic closed offices – it opened new possibilities. Working from anywhere gave us the freedom to call our own shots, be more productive…and happier.
For some, it was about burnout and the need to refocus. . White collar workers decided the paycheck wasn’t worth the stress. Exhausted teachers and healthcare workers reached their breaking point. Millennials ditched rude customers and low wages. When childcare centers closed, legions of moms were forced to stay home with their kids. Once low-risk jobs (like grocery store and restaurants) felt unsafe. Many boomers felt flush enough to take the ramp and cash out.
Meanwhile, millions of jobs remain unfilled.
Here’s my take. It’s been dubbed the Great Resignation – and economists predict it’s just beginning. A recent Gallup poll showed that 74% of us don’t want to return to an office – and more than half will leave traditional workforce roles by 2027.
Credit the ‘gig’ economy for reshaping American business. Today, more than one-third of Americans have a side hack, dabbling in everything from crypto to cannabis. From Uber driver to Amazon reseller.
Millions of us jumped at the untethered freedom of short-term projects, more flexibility and unlimited earning potential. No demanding boss, no grueling commute or office politics. Just slip on your fuzzy slippers and shuffle over to the kitchen table.
And there’s no going back.
