Technology is quickly changing our approach to work.

One such approach is a portfolio career. A portfolio career is a combination of several paid and unpaid value-adding activities. Instead of having one full-time job, you might have a part-time job, a freelancing gig, and work on a side hustle, all in different fields.

I believe such careers can make you more content in your work life. There are 4 reasons for it:

More Flexibility

Without being bound to 1 profession and 1 employer, you are more flexible in allocating your time to various projects.

You might opt for the higher paying job at one point in time and transition into freelancing more when you need more control of your time. You can put together a portfolio of roles that fit your life situation.

Less Risk

Having several roles, you are less dependent on the up-and-downs of a company or an industry.

As an employee, 100% of your income depends on your job. Your only source of income can disappear due to a restructuring, an economic downturn, or a new boss. With 2 or 3 additional roles, your income sources are much more diversified.

More Ownership

You are more motivated and happier when you own the fruits of your labor.

Even if you love your job and company, it is easy to feel estranged at times. Especially at large businesses, your work and the final outputs can feel disconnected. With a portfolio career, your every role is a puzzle piece in a lifestyle that you build for yourself.

More Novelty

A portfolio career is changing all the time.

If you discover a fascinating activity you want to integrate into your life, a portfolio career allows you to make space for it. You can always decide to dedicate time to learning a new skill and add it to your arsenal. You don't have to feel like new technology is passing you by and can ride the wave of change instead.

I believe, even if you are a young professional, you have 2 or 3 roles that you already fulfill, which can become the basis for your portfolio career.