The Kaleidoscope Career Model

Abstract

This chapter briefly reviews the concept of the Kaleidoscope Career, defining its key parameters of authenticity, balance and challenge as well as the Alpha and Beta Kaleidoscope Career patterns. Using the metaphor of a kaleidoscope, we suggest that individuals rearrange the different aspects of their lives to form different career patterns based on the individual's particular situation at that point in time. The model recognizes the influence of gender upon career decision making, arguing that career transitions are the usually the result of a combination of push and pull factors. Additionally, this chapter discusses the implications of the model for the study of entrepreneurship and generational differences among workers.