Published in PLOS One, researchers explored how each of the “Big 5” personality traits (conscientiousness, neuroticism, extroversion, agreeableness, and openness) effected individuals due to retirement or unemployment.
The researchers analyzed over 2,000 adults between the ages of 50 to 75 from the British Household Panel Survey. The survey included a personality assessment and life satisfaction after participants were no longer employed, both voluntary and involuntary, without plans to work again.
The study assessed associations between job exit routes and satisfaction in life, income, and leisure post unemployment.
Of the five personality traits, conscientious personality traits offered the most protective benefits with increased satisfaction in leisure and life after retirement and unemployment. Highly conscientious individuals coped better with the changes that comes with leaving the workforce. The effect of the personality trait was large implying a 94% difference between highly conscientious people and average individuals.
The authors hypothesized that the conscientiousness personality trait acted as a buffer where those individuals are more proactive with their circumstances.
Conscientious personality trait is characterized by attributes of self-control and discipline, being organized, responsive, and proactive.
The personality trait that each of us most exhibit is not permanent but dependent on the individual and their environment. To some extent, we all have various amounts of each of the five personality traits. However, to be an effective human being and investing into the satisfaction of your future, one should cultivate the conscientious personality trait.
“Our study uncovered associations between the routes people took to exit their jobs and their subsequent satisfaction with life, income, and leisure. These associations varied according to people’s personality traits. Conscientious individuals were more proactive in finding new fulfilling life patterns,” stated the authors.
D. Kesavayuth et al. Leaving the labor market: Exit routes, personality traits and well-being. PLOS ONE. DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0263670
