Downshifting

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

As Downshifting refers to the reduction of working with the aim to lead a more independent, fulfilling lives.

In contrast to the concept of a simple lifestyle , downshifting does not focus on consciously avoiding consumption , but on reducing working hours. Refraining from consumption is a means to an end insofar as downshifting often means that fewer financial resources are available that can be absorbed by conscious renunciation.

“Downshifting” does not mean a radical turning away from society, as is the case with so-called “getting out”. Rather, it means taking careful, clever (partial) steps to reduce the workload to an individually acceptable or desired level and to use the freedom gained in this way for more diversity and meaning in life.

origin

Downshifting is a trend from the Anglo-American region. There the consequences of the high workload were visible earlier than in Europe (see also Burnout Syndrome ). The term downshifting was first introduced in the 1990s. a. shaped by the Irish-born business philosopher and co-founder of the London Business School Charles B. Handy . His idea is not only to do without, following the motto “less is more”, but above all to find more meaning for your own life through a personal reorientation.

See also

literature

  • Jörg Felfe (2012): Work and Organizational Psychology 1. Work design, motivation and health, Stuttgart: W. Kohlhammer (Outline of Psychology; Volume 23)
  • Hajo Neu: Work Less, Live More: Strategies for Consistent Downshifting Campus Verlag, ISBN 9783593372211
  • Wiebke Sponagel: Shift down! Working independently - living more relaxed Haufe media group, ISBN 978-3-648-01288-8
  • Wiebke Sponagel: Downshifting self-determination and balance in the job Haufe Taschenguide, ISBN 978-3-648-03556-6
  • Nuber, U. (2012): Living Meaningful. The art of downshifting. In: Psychologie heute, January 2012, pp. 20–25

Web links