Today’s work world is ever changing, as are the ways in which people live. In years past, the model for most types of work was for an employee to be in a specific place all day, every day during the workweek. The “9 to 5” model has been a staple of American business, and in years past, those who defied this work model were often considered to be a bit on the Bohemian or even edgy side. Today, that model has been turned upside down by the many changes our society has seen in the past two decades.
A Social and Cultural Revolution
Way back in the 1990s, a social commentator (who was actually the owner of a cutting-edge advertising and design agency) predicted that in the future, people would no longer be tied to a desk all day during work hours. He predicted that people might be able to work remotely, and just check in at a work place at random times, depending on the workflow. This prediction came from the changes he saw coming through the computer revolution that was allowing people to work quickly and effectively through their home computers. Now, it is clear how prescient this commentator was, as the mobile smartphone revolution has made working from far off places even more possible.
Today, some people even choose to travel constantly, and “phone in” their work via their computers and smartphones. Some adventurous types are even choosing to go without a permanent address, instead just using a P.O. Box via mailbox NYC centers, and keeping belongings in storage as they work remotely and travel the world via Airbnb.
All of this change can sound dizzying for those who grew up in the more staid “9 to 5” era, but it is interesting to see how many different work and life models are working for people today. As the saying goes, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Viva the change!
