Abstract

Nowadays, careers are not linear paths anymore, but they appear as real journeys, in search of continuously changing identities. Transitions seem intrinsic to professional biographies, as much as to learning paths and growth. This article presents the results of a qualitative analysis conducted on a sample of Italian workers' biographies, showing how transitions represent important learning opportunities, from which individuals can emerge with a stronger professional identity. Whether this happens or not, it depends on the presence of solid competences, thanks to which individuals can fight their way within the complexity of contemporary job markets, building feasible paths, in harmony with their values and life perspectives.