Second Careers: Young Chinese Seek Creativity, Independence, and Financial Security
In China, a new trend is emerging among young people. After their daily jobs, they are not heading to bars or engaging in gossip, but instead, they are starting second careers. These ventures range from selling roasted sausages and frogs to pet care, and even include selling second-hand goods. This trend is not just about making extra money, but also about self-improvement and financial independence.
26 March 2024
A post on Weibo by a user named 知知老师, a woman born in the year of the Ox, with a Sagittarius moon and Capricorn rising, who graduated in 2013 and has been a teacher since then, but is currently in a difficult period with low wages and a heavy workload, expresses her frustration.
She has been studying for the civil service exam for several years without success, and after joining the party and studying Chinese language and literature, she is seeking advice on how to improve her career and financial prospects. The hashtag #下班后的年轻人开始搞第二事业了# (#Young people start their second careers after work#) has been viewed over 30 million times on Weibo. The associated posts highlight the creativity and determination of young people who are not content with their daily jobs and are looking for ways to improve their financial situation. One user, 王先生, shares his experience of starting a side business as an electrician after work.
He is excited about this new chapter in his life and is optimistic about the future. Another user, who goes by the username 笑圈少女, encourages young people to focus on their personal brand and "aura" rather than conventional paths like taking the civil service exam.
She suggests that they should wait until they are older and their personal "fire" is at its peak. The trend of starting a second career is not limited to urban areas. A post from a user in Henan province, with the handle 河南中口辐册1, describes how young people in rural areas are also getting in on the action.
They are selling second-hand goods, farming, and providing various services, thus improving their financial situation and contributing to the local economy. While the trend of starting a second career is generally viewed positively on Weibo, some users express concerns about the risks and challenges involved. They point out that not everyone has the skills, resources, or support network to succeed in a second career.
However, the overall sentiment is one of encouragement and excitement. This trend is a reflection of the changing attitudes and aspirations of young people in China. They are no longer content with traditional paths and are looking for ways to be creative, independent, and financially secure.
The government is also taking notice of this trend and is introducing policies to support entrepreneurship and innovation. In conclusion, the trend of starting a second career is a positive development for young people in China. It provides them with an opportunity to be creative, independent, and financially secure.
While there are challenges and risks involved, the overall sentiment is one of optimism and excitement. With the right support and resources, this trend can lead to a more prosperous and innovative society.