A young TikTok user encountered extensive abuse recently when she decided to use the platform to complain about the difficulties of working a 9-5 job.
This was her first job outside of college and it was a rude awakening to the world of work. Her viral post discussed the impossibility of her daily schedule, including a lengthy commute, the fact that she didn’t have the energy to work out or cook dinner and how was she ever supposed to find time to date.
In our humble opinion, she had some extremely valid points.
In the words of Kate Thurmes, ‘You can’t do a great job if your job is all you do.’ Work-life balance for individuals aged 18 to 25, often referred to as Generation Z or early Millennials can be characterised by several key elements that reflect their unique experiences and priorities.
It’s important to recognise that this generation’s perspective on work-life balance can vary based on their circumstances and cultural factors, but there are some common themes:
Flexibility: Many young adults in this age group prioritise flexible work arrangements that allow them to balance work with personal life. They may value options like remote work, flexible hours, or job sharing, which give them more control over their schedules.
Pursuit of Passion: This generation often seeks careers that align with their passions and values. They value work that feels meaningful and allows them to make a positive impact, which can contribute to a sense of balance by blurring the lines between work and personal life.
Technology Integration: Technology is an integral part of their lives, and they often use it to manage work and personal responsibilities. This generation is comfortable with using digital tools to work from anywhere, manage schedules, and stay connected with friends and family.
Self-Care: Young adults are increasingly aware of the importance of self-care for mental and physical well-being. Work-life balance includes time for relaxation, hobbies, exercise, and activities that promote overall health and wellness.
Social Connection: Maintaining a social life and spending time with friends and family is a significant aspect of work-life balance. They may prioritise social activities, community involvement, and maintaining close relationships.
Financial Stability: Achieving financial independence and stability is a crucial aspect of work-life balance for many in this age group. They often seek jobs that offer a reasonable income and opportunities for financial growth.
Education and Personal Growth: Many individuals in this age group are still in the process of pursuing education or further developing their skills. Balancing their academic or vocational pursuits with work and personal life is essential for their overall well-being.
Boundary Setting: Young adults are becoming more assertive in setting boundaries between work and personal life. They may resist overworking and strive to “unplug” from work during non-working hours.
Holistic Well-Being: Work-life balance includes attention to various aspects of well-being, such as mental health, physical fitness, emotional wellness, and relationships.
It’s essential to recognise that individual priorities and definitions of work-life balance can vary widely within this age group.
Some may prioritise career advancement, while others may prioritise a personal life. However, the common theme is a desire for a balanced and fulfilling existence that integrates work with other important aspects of living, and the specific balance sought will depend on individual circumstances and personal values.
