Beyond the Box: How to Create a Non-Traditional Life Path (and Why?)

Study > Work > Retire!

Is this how our lives need to unfold…or is there another way?

As 50 races towards me like the proverbial steam train, I have been thinking a lot about what the future looks like for me. This was further brought home when a very close friend passed away last year, and it hit me that life is too short!

I have mostly opted for the ‘safe’ traditional option in my life; I may have moved countries several times, but this was out of necessity (mainly to do with work!) and not about changing my life model.

Yes, there was that time in my late 20s, after burning myself out (again, at work!), I dropped out of the mainstream and did some life exploring, travelling to several countries, working on a ship and becoming a Scuba Instructor. However, looking back, I have always followed the more traditional three-stage life model. But something is missing!

Every morning feels like a repeat of the last, a predictable grind lacking any spark. I now feel trapped in the rigid, traditional three-stage life model: education, work, and retirement. It isn’t the life I imagined, and I know I’m not alone!

Many of us feel pressured to conform to conventional life paths — a steady job with a steady paycheck. But what if true success isn’t defined by climbing the corporate ladder but by the fulfilment we derive from our work? Enter the non-traditional life path — a world of possibility, passion, and self-determination.

What is a traditional vs non-traditional life model?

So, what are the different models? I accept that there are many variations of life models we can choose. Still, this article will focus on just two life models I discovered in an MIT Sloan Management Review article called ‘The Corporate Implications of Longer Lives’ by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott.

The Corporate Implications of Longer Lives (mit.edu)

The traditional three-stage life model has been our model of choice for decades. This model suggests life goes through three distinct and linear stages: education, work, and retirement. However, with lifespans lengthening and people living healthier lives for longer, this model needs to be questioned, and it appears to be becoming increasingly outdated.

The multistage life model is a more nuanced view of a life’s trajectory. This model recognises that people may go through multiple stages of education, work, and retirement non-linearly as life progresses.

Here’s a closer look at the two models:

The Three-Stage Model:

• Education: This stage typically lasts until a person’s mid-20s.
• Work: The predominant stage, encompassing most of a person’s adult life. This is also generally the time when most people raise their children.
• Retirement: This is the final stage, a time for leisure and relaxation.

The Multistage Life Model (these are not linear, and people may dip in and out of any stage at any point in their lives):

• Education: People may return to school for additional training or education throughout their lives.
• Exploration: This stage may involve travel, volunteer work, or other activities that help people explore their interests and passions.
• Employment in an Organisation: People may enter or re-enter the traditional workforce at various points in their lives.
• Self-Employment: People may choose to pursue self-employment or freelance work at some point in their lives.
• Portfolio Career: This stage reflects the idea that people may mix and match paid and unpaid work throughout their lives.
• Retirement: People may ease into retirement gradually, or they may choose to retire and then return to work later.

Why do you need to think of alternative Life Models?

The multistage life model offers several advantages over the more traditional three-stage model. It is flexible and adaptable and better reflects the realities of modern life. But why do we need to look at alternatives?

• Longevity: People are living longer than ever before meaning that you have more time to pursue different interests and careers.
• Technology: Technology is making it easier for you to work remotely and to start your own businesses.
• The Changing Nature of Work: The traditional workplace is undergoing a significant transformation, meaning the skills you need are constantly changing.

Defining Your Own Success

Firstly, you must ditch society’s traditional definition of success before leaping into the unknown of following a non-traditional life path.

What does success really mean to you?

Is it the freedom to set your own hours?

The chance to channel your creativity into meaningful work?

Or the ability to make a difference in your community?

Take the time to identify the values and goals that genuinely ignite your passion.

Exploring Alternative Work Models

The beauty of a non-traditional route lies in the diverse paths it can lead you down.

Here are just a few work examples that you can explore and experiment with:

• Portfolio Careers: Imagine a career built not from a single job title but a patchwork of part-time roles, freelance projects, and passion projects. This model offers you flexibility and the chance to develop and build several skills that interest you.
• Freelancing: Do you enjoy being your own boss? Freelancing allows you to choose your clients, set your rates, and work on projects aligned with your experience and expertise. Yes, income fluctuations are a reality, but numerous freelance resources and platforms are also available to help you succeed.
• Entrepreneurship: Do you have a brilliant business idea or a problem you’re passionate about solving? Entrepreneurship offers you the ultimate control over your work. It can be challenging, but the potential for impact and self-fulfilment is limitless.

Overcoming Fears and Doubts

It can be daunting to step outside of the traditional path. Fears and uncertainties will, without a doubt, creep in. You will worry about financial stability, the judgment of others, and the risk of “failing.” These fears are natural and understandable, but don’t let them control you (I know this is easier said than done, and I have struggled with these fears for a long time!).

You need to acknowledge your fears and work on strategies to reduce them.

Practical Steps to Take

Are you ready to explore a non-traditional path? The good news is there’s no need to quit your job immediately!

• Start small: Dip your toe in the water by experimenting with side projects, or if your job allows, take on some freelance work while still working at your full-time job.
• Network strategically: Connect with people who have already shifted to a more non-traditional life model. Learn from their experiences and seek their advice!
• Develop in-demand skills: Never stop learning! Find online courses in areas that interest you and work to expand your skills. Stay adaptable and relevant!

Design A Life That Fuels Your Passion

Building a non-traditional life takes courage, but the rewards are immeasurable once you succeed (on your own terms!). You get to design a life that fuels your passions, affords you flexibility, and genuinely reflects your values based on what you define as success and not what society defines as success!

If a traditional path leaves you feeling confined, consider the world of possibility beyond the box.

It’s time to take ownership of your life and define success on your terms.