Big topic #3: Hippies 2.0 – do what you love and get paid for it
At Sandbox, we connect some of the most inspiring leaders of the millennial generation. From these interactions and being part of the target group ourselves, we try to avoid generalizations made by self-proclaimed “Gen Y experts”. However, there is one element closely associated with the digital generation that will in our opinion become widespread and significantly impact society: seeking meaningful and financially sustainable work.
More than ever, young people have a strong desire to do something meaningful in their lives. We see 25-year olds having their “quarter-life crisis” and asking themselves about their purpose in life and how it impacts society. We think it’s not just youthful idealism: an increasing number of people are making bold decisions to follow their passion, even if it’s sometime an uncertain path. This new “passion generation”, as we call it, mixes their drive for meaningful impact with another old concept: capitalism.
The rise of social entrepreneurship in the last several years stands as the perfect example. People are increasingly starting or joining initiatives that work to positively change the world while at the same time being financially sustainable. This goes beyond simply donating money to a good cause, but rather developing business models that account for social impact as much as money. Social entrepreneurs want to do good AND do well.
We believe that this trend will reach beyond the young generation and create an entire “passion industry”. The main goal of this profitable industry will be to understand and support the passion of customers. We already see now an upcoming “passion media” of blogs, magazines and TV shows, special products and services in industries ranging fashion, finance, recruitment, travel, and education.
Every human being has a need to do what he’s passionate about. It has never been more accessible and accepted to make these dreams real. Welcome to the age of the Hippies 2.0.
This is one of the six big topics we feel will be important in 2010 and beyond. Have a look at the others and let us know what you think!
