Professional trajectories, individual characteristics, and staying satisfied and healthy
Title | Professional trajectories, individual characteristics, and staying satisfied and healthy |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2016 |
Authors | Johnston, C, Maggiori, C, Rossier, J |
Journal | Journal of Career Development |
Volume | 43 |
Issue | 1 |
Pagination | 81-98 |
Keywords | career adaptability, life satisfaction, personality, professional trajectories, self-rated health |
Abstract | Staying satisfied and healthy in the face of a complex and uncertain professional world is a priority for individuals. This article examines the contribution of personality traits, career adaptability, and prior well-being as predictors of well-being over 1 year in four different professional trajectory groups: those who remained employed, those who experienced a professional change, those who moved from unemployment to employment, and those who remained unemployed. Results show meaningful differences between these groups in terms of well-being over 1 year. Employed individuals have higher life satisfaction and self-rated health than unemployed individuals. Regaining employment contributes to improved well-being. Different professional situations correspond to varying levels of career adaptability, suggesting it may be a precursor for career changes. Personality traits and career adaptability predict well-being over time, but the strongest predictor of future well-being is prior well-being. Results are discussed in light of career development, personality, and well-being theory. |
DOI | 10.1177/0894845315584161 |
Refereed Designation | Refereed |