The Two Sides of Gen Z’s Work Ethic
Gen Z, the generation born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s, is often painted as a paradox in the workplace. On one hand, they’re the poster children for “quiet quitting,” a trend where employees strictly adhere to their job descriptions and refrain from going above and beyond. On the other hand, they’re fiercely passionate about side hustles, creative endeavors, and social causes—leading some to question if Gen Z is simply redefining what it means to have a fulfilling work-life balance.
The Rise of Quiet Quitting and the Allure of Passion Projects
Quiet quitting gained traction as a response to hustle culture and burnout, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Gen Z workers, having witnessed previous generations grappling with job insecurity and limited personal time, are drawing firm boundaries between their professional and personal lives. Work is seen as a means to an end, not the end itself.
Simultaneously, Gen Z is deeply invested in passion projects. From starting online businesses to advocating for social justice, this generation leverages technology and social media to pursue their interests outside the confines of traditional employment. This drive stems from a desire for autonomy, creative expression, and the potential for financial independence—factors often missing in conventional job settings.
