Unlike the traditional side hustle, polyworking involves holding multiple jobs or roles simultaneously, not just for extra cash but for career growth, skill development, and personal fulfillment. A recent Monster survey revealed that 47% of U.S. workers are polyworking, with many citing the need for financial security and flexibility in an uncertain economy. As the future of work evolves, polyworking reflects a shift in how Gen Z and millennials approach their careers, prioritizing autonomy over the conventional single-employer model.
Why Workers Are Embracing Polyworking
The motivations behind polyworking are as diverse as the workforce itself. For 51% of polyworkers, the additional income is “absolutely essential” to cover basic living expenses, debt, or to build a financial safety net. Inflation and economic anxiety have pushed 64% of workers to plan for a second job or side hustle, according to a separate survey. Beyond necessity, polyworking offers opportunities to explore passions and develop new skills. For instance, a full-time marketing professional might freelance as a graphic designer to diversify their portfolio, while others take on part-time roles to test new career paths without abandoning their primary job.
The appeal also lies in flexibility. About half of polyworkers hold a full-time job alongside one or more part-time gigs, allowing them to balance income with personal goals. Younger generations, in particular, value the ability to pursue multiple interests rather than being confined to a single role. As one X post noted, “Gen Z and millennials are juggling multiple jobs to stay afloat—or find fulfillment. One job just isn’t enough anymore.” This trend aligns with a broader desire for financial independence and career autonomy, especially as traditional employment models feel increasingly restrictive.
What lies ahead?
While polyworking offers undeniable benefits, it’s not without challenges. Time management remains a significant hurdle, as juggling multiple roles can lead to burnout or conflicts of interest. A Monster survey found that 26% of workers believe long-term polyworking could negatively impact their mental health. Balancing deadlines, meetings, and personal life requires discipline, and not all employers are supportive of employees taking on additional work. Some may view polyworking as a lack of commitment, creating tension in the workplace.
Looking forward, polyworking’s sustainability depends on individual goals. For 38% of workers, it’s a long-term strategy to achieve career aspirations, while 31% see it as a temporary solution while navigating their career path. The rise of remote work and gig platforms has made polyworking more accessible, but it also demands a cultural shift. Employers must adapt to a workforce that values flexibility and may need to offer more robust benefits to retain talent. As Guy Berger from the Burning Glass Institute noted, polyworking opportunities expanded post-pandemic, signaling a structural change in the labor market.
For some, it’s a lifeline; for others, a path to fulfillment. As the number of Americans with multiple jobs climbs to 8.9 million, the highest since 1994, it’s clear that polyworking is reshaping how we define work. Whether driven by necessity or ambition, workers are rewriting the rules, proving that one job doesn’t have to define a career. For those considering the leap, the key is balance: prioritize time management, align roles with goals, and embrace the freedom to craft a career that’s uniquely yours.