Chatting with an old law firm colleague last week, I was struck by how poorly prepared many of us are for major upheaval in our lives. Some context – he’s a partner at a law firm. He explained how effective AI had become at routine tasks. He could see a (near) future where not only are junior roles cut, but mid-level lawyers and partners can’t justify their existence either. AI is really good at these tasks and is getting better. Clients won’t pay big hourly rates for stuff that a computer does as well, in a fraction of the time.
And then this week, another friend working at a big bank mentioned how his firm plans to cut 15,000 jobs because of AI automation. It’s happening. And it’s only the start.
Now, given the day-to-day struggles of the majority, there may be limited sympathy for highly paid professionals facing a career challenge. But we’re all experiencing uncertainty and a reshaping of our understanding of the bargain of modern life. We’ve seen it already in deindustrialisation – hard jobs in industry, but jobs for life, which bought you a home and a reasonable existence. And again in the casualisation of the service sector – more zero hours contracts, less chance to build a career.
Certainties at all levels are falling away. And now it’s reaching the best protected, best paid and most coveted jobs of all. Where can you point to and say: “work hard, learn the skills and this role will support you forever”? Skilled trades, perhaps? It’s a short list.
For many people, and for good reason, their sense of self is tied up with their profession. It’s a source of pride and identity. It’s the answer to the first question a stranger asks (“And what do you do?”). That identity is under threat, for people at all levels of society. For some, their job title has been a place to hide from past trauma, or fear, or anxiety. Take it away and what’s underneath? It’s a frightening question for many people.
I have faith in humans. I think most of us are decent and we can overcome the bad actors if we want to. But if society defines you through your job, what happens when the job isn’t there? That’s when you need to find your anchor – the moral, intrinsic, essential element of who you are. With a sound understanding of ourselves, our values, the things that matter and our underlying worth, we can navigate these turbulent times, comforted by the knowledge that we matter, regardless of the external judgements that surround us.
Because of course you’re more than your job. You just might not know it yet.
Greg Lovell spent 30 years in the legal and commercial world before founding Shared Mile—offering practical, grounded therapy in Clifton, Bristol, and online. If you’re navigating a shift of your own and want a straightforward conversation, you can book a free intro call using the button above.