Edge Perspectives with John Hagel: Shifting Identities - From Consumer to Networked Creator

Edge Perspectives with John Hagel: Shifting Identities - From Consumer to Networked Creator

I liked very much this post from John Hagel. I find that it describes smartly the shift that is occuring in front of our eyes: given the new tools available to everybody, people are finding ways to express themselves in ways that were unknown before. Not only creating to express yourself, but also sharing, which in turn connects you with more people that share your passion. This creates a positive feedback loop that only accelerates as you put more effort into it. Many more people can now find a connection deep inside to discover more and develop their talents.

This has transforming power and brings significant consequences.

Putting time and energy in creating things you feel passionate about can become a conflict with other parts of your personal identity, namely your firm's identity. You start to feel the broken link between your identity and your passion and in some cases feel pushed to convert your passion into your profession.
I feel that this is underlying a massive movement in the work force these days. Not to mention the way younger generations deal with social networking.

The conflict is served. If you cannot accomodate your passion with your work, you will have difficulty coping with the growing pressure and competitive forces. The challenge is to create organziations that allow us to merge our professional and personal identities, so people find the meaning and fulfilment that is needed.