It’s no secret that Gen Z approaches work differently than older generations.
Often criticised for being less willing to “grind” or put in endless hours, Gen Z is sometimes labelled as lazy or entitled. But the reality is much more nuanced. Their attitude towards work is shaped by a world that’s constantly changing (and not in great ways), a skyrocketing cost of living, and a totally different culture than even a decade ago. Here are just a few reasons why Gen Z refuses to work as hard as older generations — and why their mindset actually makes a lot of sense.
1. They value work-life balance.
They’ve seen older generations burn out from working long hours and sacrificing personal time for their careers. As a result, they prioritise work-life balance, recognising that life outside of work matters just as much. They refuse to glorify exhaustion, and instead aim for a healthier, more balanced lifestyle where personal well-being comes first.
2. They grew up with the internet and side hustles.
Unlike older generations who were limited to traditional job paths, Gen Z grew up in the digital age, where making money online through side hustles, freelancing, or content creation is common. Their flexibility allows them to diversify their income streams and reject the idea of working endless hours for a single employer.
3. They see the flaws in the traditional 9-to-5 system.
They question the effectiveness and fairness of the traditional 9-to-5 model. They’ve seen how rigid work structures can limit creativity, stifle productivity, and harm mental health. Instead, they advocate for flexible working hours, remote work, and results-based performance rather than clocking in set hours.
4. They’re facing a different economy.
They entered the workforce during a time of rising living costs, stagnant wages, and financial instability. They’re less willing to work long hours for jobs that don’t provide financial security. The idea of working hard for the promise of future rewards feels outdated when economic realities are so uncertain.
5. They prioritise mental health.
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z openly discusses mental health and recognises its importance. They refuse to sacrifice their mental well-being for a job that drains them. They understand that working to the point of exhaustion can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout, and they’re not willing to pay that price.
6. They value purpose over pay cheques.
They want their work to have meaning. They’re not content with doing a job just for the money if it lacks purpose or goes against their values. They pursue roles that align with their beliefs, contribute positively to society, or allow them to express their creativity. The prioritisation of purpose over pay cheques makes them less likely to endure mindless, gruelling work.
7. They’ve witnessed corporate loyalty fail.
They grew up watching their parents and older relatives stay loyal to companies, only to be laid off, underpaid, or undervalued. This has made them sceptical of traditional corporate loyalty. They’re less inclined to give their all to a company that may not return the favour, focusing instead on protecting their own interests.
8. They know the importance of setting boundaries.
Older generations often pushed themselves to the brink to prove their worth at work. This generation sees the importance of setting clear boundaries to protect their time, energy, and well-being. They’re not afraid to say “no” to unreasonable demands or unpaid overtime, understanding that healthy boundaries lead to sustainable productivity.
9. They’re redefining success.
For Gen Z, success isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder or accumulating wealth. They define success in terms of personal happiness, freedom, and fulfilment. Their broader view of success means they’re less likely to overwork themselves for a traditional idea of achievement that doesn’t align with their values.
10. They’re less impressed by hustle culture.
Hustle culture — the idea that you should always be grinding, working, and achieving — has lost its appeal for many in this generation. They see it as a path to burnout rather than success. They value working smarter, not harder, and understand that rest and balance are just as important as productivity.
11. They care about fairness and equity.
They’re highly aware of workplace inequalities, such as wage gaps, discrimination, and toxic cultures. If they feel they’re being treated unfairly or not compensated properly, they’re less likely to overextend themselves. They expect fair pay and respect, and if those conditions aren’t met, they won’t hesitate to pull back their effort or leave.
12. They embrace technology and efficiency.
Having grown up with technology, they know how to use tools and apps to streamline tasks and maximise efficiency. They don’t see the point of putting in extra hours when technology can help them get the job done faster. Their focus on efficiency means they’re less likely to equate long hours with hard work.
13. They believe in enjoying life now, not just later.
Older generations often worked hard for the promise of future rewards like retirement or promotions. Gen Z believes in enjoying life now, rather than postponing happiness for a distant future. They want to experience travel, hobbies, and meaningful relationships while they’re young, not just after decades of hard work.
