As my children grow, they are influenced by two distinct role models in the realm of work—one embodying a strong work ethic and the other, a more relaxed approach. My partner, Jake, is dedicated to his job, so much so that he once accrued a decade’s worth of sick leave. His productivity is remarkable; he juggles multiple major projects simultaneously, shifting his intense focus from one to another, allowing him to accomplish a great deal over time.
In contrast, I take a more leisurely route. After the birth of our first child, I reduced my work commitments, which alleviated the pressure to pursue a traditional career. My focus has been more on securing a job that allows me time for family, friends, and hobbies rather than on strict discipline to finish projects.
According to research conducted by scholars at the University of Michigan and Google, the influence parents have on their children’s work ethic is profound. Wayne Baker and Kathryn Dekas identified three primary work orientations:
- a “job” orientation—working merely to pay the bills,
- a “career” orientation—finding satisfaction in measurable advancements, and
- a “calling” orientation—where individuals pursue their passions regardless of financial reward, much like artists or community leaders.
These orientations can shift over time, and it’s common for individuals to embody a combination of them. However, how my partner and I approach our work is likely to leave a lasting impact on our children. Baker points out that if parents frequently express dissatisfaction with their jobs, their children might internalize the notion that work is merely a grind.
As a parent, I aspire for my children to excel beyond my own work ethic, but I fear they may perceive Jake’s intense drive as the standard for success, potentially overlooking the equally important contributions of caregivers like myself. The everyday tasks of care—like preparing meals or supporting family members—often go unnoticed, while achievements in a career tend to be celebrated.
Fortunately, the research highlights the potential for a blend of career orientations. For instance, they mention a young woman who drew inspiration from her father’s ambitious career approach while also dedicating time to nonprofit work, reflecting her mother’s community-oriented spirit.
My hope is that my children will carve out paths that resonate with their passions while also serving their financial needs. Having a background in theater, I recognize the challenges of balancing passion and practicality. However, I know many artists who successfully navigate this terrain by combining jobs that pay the bills with their artistic pursuits.
Above all, I want to impart to my children that they have agency over their work lives and can adapt their paths as their circumstances shift. In the evolving job landscape of the next two decades, adaptability and a broad skill set will be essential. Sometimes they may need to prioritize financial stability, while at other times, they can immerse themselves in their passions. And there will be moments when family needs take precedence over work, reminding them that life is about balance.
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Summary:
Parents significantly shape their children’s work ethic through their own attitudes and behaviors toward work. Research identifies three work orientations—job, career, and calling—that influence how children view their future careers. It’s essential for parents to model a balanced approach to work and life, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability to prepare their children for the evolving job landscape.