Economic inactivity among young people is a pressing issue, and tackling it effectively demands more than traditional approaches. Alice Thomson’s article in The Times rightly highlights the need for greater support for the young. However, her proposed solution—a mix of tough love and systemic tweaks—still clings to outdated assumptions about work as drudgery and success as a by-product of relentless grind.
At the Academy of Life Planning, we challenge this mindset. Through our GAME Plan, we propose an alternative: a supportive framework that doesn’t dismiss hard work but aligns it with meaningful goals, empowering young people to thrive in a way that suits their passions and abilities. Let’s explore where the approaches differ and why we believe in attaching dreams to plans, not stress to labour.
1. Work as a Means to Fulfilment vs. a Necessary Grind
Thomson argues that young people must accept that “working life will be stressful and hard” and that “drudgery” is the price of progress. While resilience and routine are vital, framing work solely as a grind risks alienating a generation already grappling with mental health challenges and socio-economic pressures.
The GAME Plan takes a different view. Work doesn’t have to be joyless; it can and should be aligned with personal goals and values. By helping young people define what they want (their Goals) and supporting them in navigating obstacles (Actions), we empower them to see work as a meaningful part of their journey, not a punishment to endure.
2. Goals as Dreams vs. Dreams as Illusions
Thomson warns against “manifesting” as a shortcut to success, rightly pointing out that dreams alone are not enough. But the solution isn’t to discourage ambition; it’s to teach young people how to connect their dreams to actionable plans.
The GAME Plan bridges this gap by focusing on the Means—equipping young people with the financial, social, and environmental resources to pursue their aspirations responsibly. Whether it’s Riley’s dream to sail or someone else’s passion for technology, the message is clear: dreams are valid, but achieving them requires structured planning and effort.
3. Support Systems that Empower vs. Systems that Limit
Thomson stresses the need for counselling and coaching, which aligns with our approach. However, her insistence that young people accept “starting at the bottom” risks reinforcing a one-size-fits-all model of employment that often fails those with neurodiverse needs or creative ambitions.
The GAME Plan’s approach to Execution provides tailored coaching and mentorship, focusing on individual strengths rather than forcing everyone into the same mould. By recognising diverse talents and aspirations, we create pathways to meaningful economic activity that feel both achievable and fulfilling.
4. Systemic Incentives for Employers vs. Individual Responsibility
Thomson’s call for systemic changes, such as reintroducing careers officers and incentivising employers, is essential and complements the GAME Plan’s approach. However, we believe that external incentives must go hand-in-hand with internal empowerment.
Young people need more than opportunities—they need the confidence and skills to seize them. By guiding them through the GAME Plan’s four pillars, we help them take charge of their futures, ensuring they’re ready to meet opportunities when they arise.
Why Our Approach Matters
The current narrative often pits dreams against reality, as if young people must choose between the two. The GAME Plan rejects this false dichotomy. It’s about showing young people that success isn’t just about “rawdogging” life or settling for stress and drudgery—it’s about planning, adapting, and striving with purpose.
Yes, work takes effort, and challenges are inevitable. But when young people see how their efforts connect to their dreams, they’re more motivated to persevere. That’s the power of the GAME Plan: it’s not about removing the grind, but making the grind worthwhile.
Conclusion: Let’s Inspire Action, Not Resignation
Thomson is right that Britain needs to address economic inactivity urgently. But we must do so in a way that inspires the young to believe in their potential, not resign themselves to a life of struggle.
With the GAME Plan, we’re helping young people dream responsibly, plan effectively, and work purposefully. Together, we can create a future where economic activity isn’t a burden but a pathway to fulfilment.
Let’s attach plans to dreams—not stress to labour—and empower the next generation to thrive.
Q&A: Empowering Young People with the GAME Plan
Q: What is the GAME Plan, and how does it help young people?
The GAME Plan is a framework designed to guide young people towards meaningful and fulfilling economic activity. It focuses on:
- Goals: Identifying what you truly want to achieve.
- Actions: Planning steps to overcome obstacles.
- Means: Securing resources like earnings, savings, and social capital to support your goals.
- Execution: Providing coaching to stay on track and turn plans into reality.
This approach ensures young people can align their passions with achievable plans, giving them the tools to take charge of their futures.
Q: Does the GAME Plan ignore the need for hard work?
Not at all! Hard work is an essential part of achieving any goal. What the GAME Plan does is make that work feel worthwhile by connecting it to something meaningful. Instead of seeing work as drudgery, young people learn to approach it with purpose and resilience, knowing it’s helping them reach their dreams.
Q: Why not just teach young people to accept that work is hard and stressful?
While resilience is vital, framing work as something to endure rather than enjoy risks demotivating young people. The GAME Plan takes a balanced approach: it acknowledges the challenges but focuses on creating a positive relationship with work by aligning it with personal values and aspirations. This mindset fosters motivation, persistence, and long-term success.
Q: How does the GAME Plan address mental health and neurodiversity?
The GAME Plan is tailored to individual needs, including those with mental health challenges or neurodiverse conditions. Through coaching and mentorship, it helps young people identify their unique strengths and create pathways that work for them. It’s about building confidence and providing support, ensuring no one feels left behind.
Q: What makes the GAME Plan different from other career support programmes?
The GAME Plan is unique because it goes beyond traditional career advice. It integrates financial planning, social and environmental considerations, and personal coaching into one cohesive framework. This holistic approach helps young people not only find jobs but also create lives they love.
Q: Can dreams really be turned into reality through planning?
Absolutely. The GAME Plan teaches young people how to connect their dreams to actionable steps. By breaking big goals into smaller, achievable milestones, it turns ambition into progress. Dreams don’t have to stay dreams—they can become plans with the right tools and support.
Q: How does the GAME Plan work in practice?
The process begins with defining clear goals. From there, we identify potential obstacles and plan actions to overcome them. We then focus on securing the necessary resources—financial, social, and environmental—to support the journey. Finally, through coaching and guidance, we ensure consistent execution and adaptability.
Q: How does the GAME Plan benefit businesses and society?
By empowering young people to engage in meaningful economic activity, the GAME Plan addresses economic inactivity and enhances workforce readiness. Businesses benefit from motivated, purpose-driven employees, while society gains from reduced reliance on benefits and increased innovation and creativity.
Q: Can the GAME Plan work alongside government initiatives?
Yes! The GAME Plan complements government efforts by adding a personalised, human-centred approach. While policies and incentives are crucial, the GAME Plan provides the practical tools and emotional support young people need to seize these opportunities.
Q: How can I or someone I know get started with the GAME Plan?
Getting started is simple! Reach out to the Academy of Life Planning to learn more about the GAME Plan framework and how it can help you or someone you care about. Together, we’ll turn dreams into plans and plans into action. Let’s create a future you’re excited about!
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