People Are Forgetting How To Work. Chris Black Is Here To Remind You.
Pick up the phone, develop a point of view, let go of needing credit. Real advice from a multi-hyphenate for navigating the professional world.
By Chris Black
Photos by Maddy Rotman
Published
In collaboration with Urban Outfitters and Dickies, we created a series of stories that feature creative leaders who offer their insight on the “new” work world.
In 2015, I wrote a book called “I Know You Think You Know It All: Advice and Observations For You to Stand Apart in Public and Online.” It was my version of the classic “Life's Little Instruction Book.” Somehow, shockingly, most of it holds up, even though how we interact, communicate, and work has devolved significantly in eight long years. It was meant to be lighthearted, which is a tone we need even more today. Everyone is so serious, so bummed, so worried. It’s going to be fine, relax. When Gutes and Megan asked me to contribute to this issue, as someone who has, in theory, created his own lane in the workforce, I thought it would be best to expand on the book concept and add some work-related advice.
Not everyone is cut out for being their own boss. Some of you are too lazy, irresponsible, or unable to stomach the financial ups and downs. The lack of security and, of course, health insurance is enough to deter most. But in today’s society, no one wants a real job. Everyone wants to be “creative” or, worse, a “content creator.” I am not here to discourage you but instead give you some sage words of advice for joining the workforce. I dropped out of high school and have never held a “real job,” which has been fun and rewarding but also profoundly challenging. I have learned most lessons the hard way, but maybe you don’t have to.