Looking to futureproof your career and beef up your income at the same time? Enter career cushioning.
What’s The Fuss About Career Cushioning?
Career cushioning is the process of creating a secondary source of income, passion project, or skill set to prepare for any potential disruptions in your career.
Career cushioning is on the rise and is more accessible than ever thanks to the freelance and gig economy. The traditional 9-to-5 job model is gradually being replaced by a more flexible work when you want model.
Career cushioning is therefore seen as a way to regain control of your career trajectory and income streams. By having a secondary source of income or a fallback plan, you can be proactive in safeguarding your financial security and ensure that you are not solely dependent on your main job in case you get laid off.
Another benefit is the opportunity to explore your passions while earning extra income. Career cushioning is not just about securing your financial stability but also about pursuing your passions and creating a life around it.
It allows you to take calculated risks and experiment with new ventures without worrying about the consequences.
Career cushioning can also provide you with a bigger network, stronger skill set, and diverse experiences that can come in handy and help you become a high-earning generalist.
For example, let’s say you work in advertising but also acquire some graphic design skills on the side. In case of a recession or job loss, you can leverage your design skills to seek freelance work or even start your own design business.
This diversified skill set also makes you a more versatile and competitive consultant, and can beef up your professional brand overall.
Career cushioning can also do wonders for your financial wellness. The additional income earned outside of your primary job can be used to crush debt and lessen your financial stress overall.
In addition, career cushioning can be a powerful tool for career growth and advancement.
By developing new skills, taking on side hustles, or pursuing your passion, you can score higher pay, increase your job satisfaction or fulfillment, avoid getting stuck in a rut, and tap into new opportunities ongoing.
Through career cushioning, you can avoid getting pigeonholed and hold the freedom to leave a dead-end job if you are dealing with burnout.
The Takeaway
Career cushioning is a modern and effective way to futureproof your career and income. It can provide you with financial stability, opportunities for personal growth, and flexibility.
In a way, career cushioning is a proactive strategy because you’re not just vulnerably waiting for disruptions to occur.
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