working.

Intents & Purposes

Working in the 21st century presents many challenges for adults, just like any other era in American history. Many things have improved, as they should over long periods, demonstrating the evolution of a society. However, there are traditions, like disparate work environments and gender roles, that remain the same for no reason. This stagnation, which no longer serves the whole of society, appears to be uniquely American. Entries in this blog will focus on some of the distinct challenges faced by contemporary working adults in America. 

Since there is no universal guidebook for navigating professional expectations this blog will consciously consider and present practical themes. All topics and subjects will focus on purely American issues and offer undeniable American perspectives on the impact(s) societal and institutional infrastructure has on the lives of working adults in the United States. The subjects and ideas expressed here are intended to generate conversation about the daily challenges working adults face that employers do not speak about enough, and the United States government largely speaks of but does very little to move American society forward. 

Without broader discussion on topics that most working adults face, the existing state of affairs, which was never intended to work for the vast number of Americans who make up today’s workforce, will remain in place.  The entries are written by working adults that follow the Baby Boomers. These are individual writers who want to see their country preparing for the kind of change required for the “pursuit of happiness” to actually serve as an unalienable right. 

  • the difference between success and satisfaction

    By L. J. Brown, November 2023 I am sure that I still have lots to learn during my working years of life, but having just passed the mid-career stage of my journey what I have gained has taken on greater value and meaning for this stage of my personal and professional life.  As I completed my…

  • Compensation As Value

    By Elyse Fox, October 2023 Salary negotiation can be one of the more daunting and frustrating things for both job seekers and employees. In many fields, salary negotiation is expected, anticipated, and can in fact have positive net outcomes for the job seeker/employee. However, for those of us working in vocational professions, we seem doomed…

  • Limitations of a Mentor

    Not everyone can lead others to water.  Understanding the limitation of some leaders is a very important skillset to develop.  When someone has worked at the same institution since they were a student employee, they may not be the best person to help other individuals think of a future beyond the current position held; or to put…

  • Finding a champion

    Searching for a mentor is not only about getting someone to share their experience or introductions to new contacts.  A mentor also needs to be more than the person with a title at work who can advocate for a promotion for their mentee.  A mentor should be equal parts champion, cheerleader, and coach.  A champion will march, and…

  • Who mentors who?

    …and how does someone become qualified to mentor?   Well the short answer is that no one qualifies to become a mentor.  There is no one certification process or “national” standard.  Finding a mentor that is a good fit, knowledgeable and resourceful, but also has the capacity and desire to mentor is something like finding a four-leaf clover.  And…

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