For Gen Zers and millennials, stress and burnout have become all too familiar. A growing trend is emerging among young adults: taking extended breaks from work, known as “micro-retirement.” This phenomenon involves pausing for a year or more to focus on mental health, personal interests, and enjoying life’s experiences.
Anaïs Felt, 31, has found that micro-retirement has revitalized her well-being. She notes that none of the top tech companies she’s interviewing with seem to value this break, but rather want to take one themselves. This shift in mindset suggests that young adults are seeking a more sustainable approach to work and retirement.
According to Gallup, only 50% of workers report thriving in their lives, a record low since 2009. The pandemic has taken its toll on employees’ well-being, with years later, burnout still prevalent. Gen Zers and millennials, already underpaid and overworked, are increasingly feeling the strain.
Liz Lee, a 30-year-old tech consultant, is redefining her career path to prioritize mental health and personal interests. She’s turned down promotions to maintain a better work-life balance. This approach reflects a growing desire among young adults to rethink the traditional retirement model.
In contrast, older generations face significant challenges when it comes to retiring. Financial anxiety, combined with increased life expectancy, has made it difficult for many to leave the workforce. Gen Xers, in particular, report being the least financially prepared to retire due to the decline of pensions. This has led to a growing trend of “unretirement,” where older adults are forced to return to work.
As young adults seek new ways to approach retirement, they may be influencing their older counterparts. The desire for micro-retirement reflects a broader shift in values, prioritizing well-being and flexibility over traditional notions of work and retirement.
Source: https://fortune.com/2025/01/03/while-boomers-are-unretiring-exhausted-gen-z-and-millennials-are-taking-a-micro-retirement-from-their-careers