The "great resignation" refers to a phenomenon in which a large number of people, mostly belonging to the millennial and Gen Z generations, are opting out of the traditional 9-to-5 workweek and the rat race of climbing the corporate ladder. These individuals are instead choosing to prioritize their mental and physical well-being, and to seek out work that is more fulfilling and aligns with their values.
One reason for this shift is the changing economic landscape. The 2008 financial crisis and subsequent recession had a significant impact on the job market, particularly for young people. Many millennials graduated into a job market with high unemployment and stagnant wages, which has led to a sense of financial insecurity and a lack of faith in the traditional career path.
Another factor is the rise of the gig economy and the increasing availability of remote work options. This has made it easier for people to escape the traditional 9-to-5 workweek and instead create their own schedules and work on their own terms. Additionally, the growing awareness of the impact of work on one's mental and physical health has led many to prioritize self-care over career advancement. Furthermore, the technological advancements and automation have led to a rising sense of economic insecurity among workers. It has led to a large number of jobs being replaced by machines. This has led to many people questioning the value of their work and the impact it has on their lives.
The "great resignation" is also characterized by a desire for more purposeful and meaningful work. Many millennials and Gen Zers want to make a positive impact on the world and are looking for ways to incorporate their values and passions into their careers. This has led to a growing interest in the social and environmental sectors, as well as in entrepreneurship and self-employment. One of the main challenges facing these individuals is the financial uncertainty that comes with breaking away from the traditional career path. Many people are struggling to make ends meet as they pursue more fulfilling work, and there is a lack of support for those who are making the transition.
Moreover, many companies are not providing adequate support for remote work, which is essential for this population. The lack of work-life balance and the constant pressure to be always connected and productive can have severe consequences on the mental health of these individuals.
The "great resignation" is a phenomenon characterized by a growing number of people, mostly millennials and Gen Z, who are opting out of the traditional 9-to-5 workweek and the rat race of climbing the corporate ladder. The reasons for this shift include the changing economic landscape, the rise of the gig economy, and the growing awareness of the impact of work on mental and physical health. Additionally, the technological advancements and automation have also led to a rising sense of economic insecurity among workers. The main challenges facing these individuals are the financial uncertainty and the lack of support for remote work.