Reynaldo C. Lugtu, Jr. l November 9, 2023 l Manila Bulletin
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the way our society values and prioritizes experiences. This transformation, often referred to as “The Age of Experience,” is characterized by a growing emphasis on personal experiences and their significance in shaping our lives, perspectives, and priorities. From the way we travel and dine to the way we engage with technology and make career choices; the age of experience has left its mark on every aspect of our lives. We need to further explore the concept of the age of experience, its implications for individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.
The age of experience is marked by a fundamental shift away from the accumulation of material possessions and towards the pursuit of meaningful and enriching experiences. Traditionally, success and happiness were often equated with acquiring material wealth, such as a big house, a fancy car, or an impressive collection of possessions. However, as we move deeper into the 21st century, people are increasingly recognizing that true fulfilment comes from the experiences that enrich their lives. This shift can be attributed to several interrelated factors.
One significant driver of the age of experience is the rise of the digital age. With the advent of the internet and social media, people can now easily share their experiences with a global audience. This sharing culture has contributed to a shift in values, as individuals increasingly prioritize experiences that can be documented and shared with friends and followers. For instance, a vacation to a picturesque destination is no longer about relaxing and enjoying beautiful scenery; it’s also about capturing stunning photographs and creating shareable memories.
In the realm of travel, the age of experience is evident in the growing popularity of adventure tourism. People are increasingly seeking out adventurous and transformative experiences, such as hiking through the Amazon rainforest, or swimming with sharks in the Galápagos Islands. These experiences offer more than just a break from the routine; they provide opportunities for personal growth, self-discovery, and the creation of lasting memories. The desire for transformative travel experiences is exemplified by companies like Airbnb, which offers unique and immersive accommodations, and by travel influencers who inspire their followers with stories of their incredible journeys.
Similarly, the dining industry has not been immune to the age of experience. Many restaurants are now emphasizing not just the quality of their food but the entire dining experience. Restaurants offer themed dining events, immersive dining experiences, and chef’s table dinners, all designed to create memorable moments for their patrons. In this context, dining is not just about satisfying hunger but also about savoring unique flavors, enjoying the art of plating, and sharing the experience with friends and family. High-end dining establishments often offer tasting menus that take customers on a gastronomic journey, celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship of the chef.
Another aspect of the age of experience is the way we interact with technology. In the past, technology was primarily seen as a means to an end, a tool to accomplish specific tasks. Now, technology is increasingly being integrated into our daily lives to enhance our experiences. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are transforming the way we play games, learn, and even socialize. For example, the success of games like Pokémon GO and the widespread adoption of VR headsets for gaming and entertainment highlight the desire for immersive experiences that blur the lines between the virtual and the real world.
One prominent example of this shift is the use of AR technology in museums and cultural institutions. Visitors can use their smartphones to access augmented reality exhibits, where historical artifacts come to life or artworks are explained in greater detail through interactive digital overlays. This not only enhances the educational value of these institutions but also creates a more engaging and memorable experience for visitors.
The age of experience has also influenced career choices and work environments. Many people are prioritizing jobs and careers that provide them with a sense of purpose and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. They are looking for work that aligns with their values and allows them to feel a sense of fulfilment. This is evident in the rise of socially conscious businesses, the increasing interest in sustainability and corporate social responsibility, and the popularity of work in the nonprofit sector.
For example, many millennials and Gen Z individuals are drawn to careers in social entrepreneurship and impact investing, which blend profit with a focus on solving social and environmental challenges. They want to make a meaningful difference in the world through their work, and they are willing to forgo higher salaries in traditional corporate jobs to pursue careers that resonate with their values and passions.
In conclusion, the age of experience is a profound paradigm shift that is transforming the way we live, work, and interact with the world. The rise of digital culture, the pursuit of transformative travel experiences, the transformation of dining into a multisensory adventure, the integration of technology into our daily lives, and the changing nature of career choices all exemplify this shift. As people increasingly prioritize experiences that enrich their lives and align with their values, we are witnessing a redefinition of success and happiness that transcends traditional markers of material wealth.
*** The author is the Founder and CEO of Hungry Workhorse, a digital, culture, and customer experience transformation consulting firm. He is a Fellow at the US-based Institute for Digital Transformation. He is the Chair of the Digital Transformation IT Governance Committee of FINEX Academy. He teaches strategic management and digital transformation in the MBA Program of De La Salle University. The author may be emailed at rey.lugtu@hungryworkhorse.com.