Trying on a Slash Career
The humble “/” that for decades played second fiddle to the far more important and frequently used “?” on the keyboard, is the new bright star in the work world: it defines Slash Careers
Those who have a Slash Career are called “a Slash.” (I’m relieved: for one horrible moment I thought I was a Slasher!)
From my research, a Slash is someone with “mixed professional identity” who is unabashedly engaged in multiple careers simultaneously. Thus it would seem I am one: I fully enjoy both sides of my own slash: coach / airbnb host.
Other examples might include: Technician/Artist or Writer/Yoga Instructor.
In this great article which tells about lawyer, now author Marci Alboher, I particularly appreciate the thought: “the place that something occupies in your life – the paycheck, the gratifier, the giveback, the passion – is all up to you. In a slash career, you can control what goes where.”
What I’m pondering is this: Millennials are leading the charge with Slash Careers. I wonder if Boomers will be the next group to follow suit. There are many of us who are keen to become more self-aware, and live authentically. For some that will mean exploring, and using, natural strengths that have been waiting in the wings for many years.
Must run: I have new Work/Life Clarity content to develop…and chocolates to put on the freshly plumped pillows 🙂
Love this article, Anna! We are now recognizing and acknowledging the many aspects of our selves, and we are putting them all to work in the wonderful new concept of “slash” careers!! The more the merrier, I say!! Variety is the spice of life. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Beautifully said, Marianne. Thanks for posting your enthusiastic response!