Our economy and work rules are undergoing a revolution.
As the dynamics of the industrial economy fade into the sunset, that old path to success is fading away. Gone are the days in which earning a degree, being on time, following the rules and collecting a paycheck were the formula for success and a secure retirement.
It’s time to reinvent the way you work, or you risk working your way into obscurity.
Today, we are experiencing the dawn of the connection economy. Look no further than the college classes of 2011-13 for evidence of the need for a shift. A recent survey by Accenture finds that only 16 percent of 2013 graduates have jobs right now, and 32 percent of 2011-12 graduates are earning $25,000 or less.
As the assumptions of the industrial economy lose efficacy, the virtues of the connection economy and the artisan lifestyle are emerging as viable alternatives.
The connection economy does not promise an easy path, but it does offer an opportunity for deep satisfaction, human connection, compassion and humility.
What does this mean? Let’s look at some definitions:
Connection economy: The economic era ushered in by the Internet and computer technology. Characterized by increased product and service options, small groups of loyal customers called tribes and a focus on the development of intangible assets, such as trust, permission, remarkability and leadership more than ownership of physical assets.
Artisan: A person who creates a unique product or service by working with his or her hands, mind and heart in service to people for whom they care deeply.
Artisan business: A business started by someone who works with his or her hands, mind and heart to provide a unique product or service. At first, the business serves people who enjoy similar products or activities; then the business can grow to serve a larger market.
Artisan lifestyle: A lifestyle characterized by providing and purchasing artisan products offering a better quality of life through thoughtfully prepared, small-batch goods and services.
In Durango, we are fortunate to have many inspiring models of artisans, artisanal businesses and the artisanal lifestyle. Vendors and customers at the Farmers Market, Ska Brewing Co., James Ranch and Serving Life Chiropractic all fit these definitions and offer examples of success in the connection economy.
Do you want to share the promise of the connection economy and take your economic future into your own hands, mind and heart?
I encourage you to begin by adopting the artisan lifestyle. Seek artisanal products, patronize artisanal businesses and think about what makes an artisanal business and what doesn’t.
Better yet, create your own definition for artisanal businesses; then consider what’s missing from Durango’s connection economy so you can provide the unique product or service Durango needs.
Start making it for yourself, your family and your friends, then begin selling your own artisanal product.
We’re waiting to experience your brilliance.
matt.kelly.durango@gmail.com. Durango resident and personal finance coach Matt Kelly owns Momentum: Personal Finance. www.personalfinancecoaching.com.
