Bringing home the bacon isn’t what it used to be. A new generation of workers is on the rise: independent workers who prioritize creativity and flexibility. It’s no longer “mainstream” to live a life centralized around traditional full-time employment. Instead, more people value balance and freedom, which is why roughly 53 million Americans are now self-employed. In 1995 and the early 2000’s, 93% of the workforce was represented by full and part-time employees managed by HR. This is no longer the case. Today, freelancers and temps make up nearly 15% of the Passion and Driveworkforce. Additionally, in the next five years, it’s estimated that 40% of the workforce will be independent. The independent worker movement is growing rapidly, changing society’s working culture along the way. This upward momentum make us wonder: what exactly is the independent worker movement? Ultimately, this movement includes self-employed temps, freelance workers and independent contractors who determine the work they take on while dictating their own schedules. Not only does this lifestyle provide balance, but it incentivizes employers with cost efficiencies and specialized expertise when needed. In other words, this movement is on the rise because it’s practical. As the Millennial generation enters the workforce, the independent worker movement will only continue to grow. Millennials value potential and new possibilities: only 18% expect to stay with their current employer for the long term. Further, Millennials rate personal learning, development and flexible work Death_to_stock_photography_Vibrant (7 of 10)hours above cash bonuses. Working intelligently and effectively means far more than working hard. In short, the independent worker movement isn’t going anywhere. People desire work that fosters flexibility, creativity, efficiency, and balance. This is the new mainstream: discovering how to work smart. Note: If you want to become a part of this movement, be sure to plan accordingly. Here are some helpful links with tools and resources to help you with your transition: