How To Design Your Best Career in 90 Days or Less
I was recently on a podcast talking about what I do, and the topic of the false sense of security of the 9-5 came up. In fact, Reid Hoffman has said that the 9-5 will be extinct by 2034, and that’s the co-founder of LinkedIn who is sitting on a lot of data.
We all know AI is shifting the workforce, amongst a choppy global economy and unpredictable political landscape. But I refuse to take a victim’s stance, and I believe those that will be successful in the future will to.
So what do we do about this? How do we create proactivity in a world where it feels like our humanness is diminishing little by little each day?
We hold onto that humanness and we use it to solve new human problems.
Ok - but what kind of problems?
First, we must start intrinsically. It’s what we can control and what we have access to. The problems we decide to solve will depend on the answers we find here.
Then we have to think about all the things we love, are good at and care about.
The impact we want to make.
Then we come up with some themes
Then we map those by the market and test the best opportunities
Then we set goals and develop a plan for you to get there.
We have a vision so big, so human, so real that AI could never replicate it.
But - just for good measure - I asked ChatGTP about the most AI-proof careers and here’s what it said.
1. Human-Centered Professions
These involve emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, or nuanced human interaction: Therapists & Psychologists, Social workers, Executive & leadership coaches, Medical professionals (doctors, nurses, palliative care), and Special education teachers.
AI can assist but cannot replace deep empathy and complex emotional navigation.
2. Creative Professions (Original IP & Vision-Based)
While AI can mimic, it struggles with original thought, taste, and visionary leadership: Writers & authors (especially those with distinct voices or niches), Brand strategists & creative directors, Designers (fashion, product, UX — with strong human-centered POVs), Film directors, screenwriters and editors.
AI might generate options, but taste, originality, and cultural relevance still require a human.
3. Strategic & Visionary Leadership
AI can analyze data but not create vision or navigate complex interpersonal and business dynamics: CEOs & Founders, Organizational design consultants, Change management experts, Strategic advisors & board members.
The further up you go in vision, the less replaceable you become
4. Skilled Trades & Hands-On Service Work
AI can’t do physical labor or in-person maintenance (yet): Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, Nurses and surgical assistants, Hairstylists, massage therapists, estheticians, Dog trainers & animal care specialists.
Demand is rising in many of these fields due to labor shortages.
5. Ethics, Law, & Human Governance
AI raises more ethical, legal, and cultural issues — not fewer: Privacy lawyers & tech ethicists, DEI consultants, HR business partners and Policy advisors.
These fields are evolving because of AI, not being replaced by it.
6. Entrepreneurs Solving Human Problems
Founders who solve for emotional pain points, identity shifts, or human transitions are in a strong position. AI is a tool here, not the solution.
Turns out -that big vision or calling you have for solving human problems is the most AI proof you can get. AI hasn’t lived your life. It doesn’t know what you know not only in your brain but in your gut.
Life experience is the most AI proof you can get. That’s how you’ll know what problems to go help people solve that AI cannot.
Because AI can’t replicate you, or your special sauce.
So the answer to designing your career in 90 days or less is to start with who you are, what you care about, what you are good at, what valuable experiences you’ve had and what you can create out of the cross-section of those things that will leave the impact you want in the world. That’s where you will make the most money and be the happiest.
If you’re ready to get started and want to follow my proven Career Design Method, see how you can join The Strategic Executive Exit program: https://www.fullcupco.com/introcall