What if Your Job No Longer Exists Tomorrow? #19
discovering your identity beyond job titles
Back in 2021, while attending a personal branding course, I learned of a staggering statistic: 85% of professions expected to exist in 2030, hadn't even been invented yet.
This study was conducted before Covid, showing that the researchers hadn't even accounted for the pandemic's impact on the pace of change. It was a time of collective reevaluation, when people were questioning the very foundations of their work and lives.
Fast forward to 2024, and the landscape has shifted even further. It’s no longer just about reflecting on our aspirations; with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, many jobs are on the brink of extinction while others are being radically reshaped.
The idea of “85% new jobs” no longer feels like a staggering possibility—it feels like an imminent reality.
Featured Insight:
I have always been somewhat intrigued by the way people introduce themselves; often leading with their professions. For me, fitting into a single label has always been a challenge. Whenever someone asks me what I do, I find myself grappling to encapsulate it all. Sure, I often mention photography as a quick reference point, but that is just one piece of the puzzle.
Over the years, I’ve moved through different roles, lived in different countries, and made choices shaped by values, curiosity, and instinct. All of these things—my experiences, beliefs, and travels—speak just as much to who I am as any profession ever could.
While society tends to categorize people by job titles, what happens if those jobs vanish? Everybody would be forced to consider their identities beyond professions.
In a world where career paths are increasingly uncertain and nonlinear, I believe it is more important than ever to understand who we are beyond our work. What anchors us when the roles we inhabit change or disappear altogether?
What I’m drawn to now is building a professional life that extends beyond job descriptions—something rooted in values, stories, and the ability to adapt.
So if you’re wondering how to prepare for jobs that haven’t even been created yet, I’d suggest starting here:
Ask yourself, beyond your job, what makes you you?
If the roles we inhabit were to vanish tomorrow, what would remain?
Your name, your identity—those things do not change just because your job does. Your legacy goes beyond any job description. While roles may be transient, identity endures.
Creative Corner: (Travel Edition)
This time, I am taking Creative Corner in a slightly different direction—a travel edition.
There is something truly magical about traveling. It is like we put on our 'wanderlust lens’ and see everything with extra attention.
Last month, we were back in Buenos Aires during our yearly trip to South America. It was my fifth visit to the vibrant capital of Argentina. Returning to a city you know so well brings a sense of freedom—you feel like you can skip the 'must-visit' touristy spots and head straight to your favorite places.
Just to give you some context, Buenos Aires was the first major capital I ever visited. I hail from the South of Brazil, so the capital of Argentina is much closer to us than the capital of our own country. In fact, the city I was born in is on the border with Argentina, and reaching Buenos Aires means a comfortable ten-hour, overnight bus journey.
I remember my first visit there—it felt like stepping into a dream, with all that gorgeous architecture, and people lost in their books at cozy cafes. I imagined that the capital cities of Europe would be similar to that. Many years later, I confirmed that notion.
I love nothing more than wandering through the city, especially on foot, soaking in the green spaces, exploring bookstores, and indulging in specialty cafes and exceptional restaurants—and Buenos Aires has all of it in abundance.
An interesting fact: Buenos Aires boasts the highest number of bookstores per capita, globally. While there are many lovely bookstores throughout the city, one stands out in particular: El Ateneo Grand Splendid.
I have mentioned it here before, when I shared the most beautiful libraries I have seen in my life (link). Housed in a stunning former theater—imagine rows of books stretching across the grand stage and balconies, creating a truly majestic scene.
So great is the number and competitiveness of the market, bookstores there go beyond selling books; they often combine literature with cafes, restaurants, wine bars, all within beautiful decor.
During our time there, we opted to stay in the charming Recoleta neighborhood—this area is a joy to stroll around, full of parks, former palaces, elegant boutiques. Notable attractions include the famed Recoleta Cemetery and The National Museum of Fine Arts. From there, a walk takes you to another personal favorite, the vibrant Palermo neighborhood.
In Palermo, you will discover cool shops (like @paul_french_gallery), cozy cafes (my personal favorite this time was @casacavia), vibrant street art, and, of course, more bookstores (I adored @eternacadencia). And the cherry on top? My favourite restaurant, Sacro (@sacroresto), is nestled right in the heart of this creative hub.
Speaking of Sacro, it is worth noting that this gem thrives as a vegan restaurant in the heart of a meat-consuming capital. I've lost count of how many times I've returned during my visits to the city. Owned by designers, the restaurant offers a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
If you enjoyed this travel special edition, let me know by hitting the heart button below or by leaving me a comment.
Stay Connected: Follow me on Instagram: @giane.rp and @carpe.lux
How true! Your perspective provides reason to worry but also provides a remedy for hope. Well said.