An increasing number of young individuals are forgoing the traditional life script of "school - university - work - retirement." Instead, they are embracing a new trend – "mini-retirement." The essence of this approach is simple: save enough money, resign from their job, and spend several years living freely, enjoying life and traveling. This shift has sparked lively discussions: some see it as wisdom, while others view it as irresponsibility. Let’s delve into what underlies this phenomenon and why it has gained such popularity among Generation Z.
What is "Mini-Retirement"?
"Mini-retirement" is a form of career break that young people take to live for themselves. Unlike traditional retirement, which occurs later in life, a “mini-retirement” spans several years and typically occurs between the ages of 25 and 35. Gen Zers save money by cutting unnecessary expenses and then use those savings to travel, pursue creative endeavors, or simply to relax.
This trend has been made possible by several factors. Firstly, young people are increasingly questioning traditional values, such as career advancement and material success. Secondly, the rise of remote work and freelancing allows for income generation without being tethered to an office. Lastly, social media and blogs inspire Gen Zers to experiment with their lifestyles, demonstrating that alternative ways of living are possible.
Why do Gen Zers Choose "Mini-Retirement"?
Generation Z has grown up during an era of instability: economic crises, pandemics, climate change, and other global challenges have prompted them to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of not spending it on unfulfilling work. They desire to live “in the moment” rather than postpone their dreams.
Moreover, young individuals increasingly encounter burnout early in their careers. Long working hours, lack of work-life balance, and pressure from employers often leave young professionals feeling exhausted. "Mini-retirement" presents an opportunity for them to recharge and re-evaluate their goals.
Employer Reaction
Employers are understandably not thrilled about this trend. For companies, the departure of young professionals signifies a loss of valuable talent and additional costs for recruiting and training new staff. Some leaders view "mini-retirement" as a manifestation of irresponsibility and immaturity. However, critics overlook that Gen Z values freedom and flexibility. They are unwilling to sacrifice their time and wellbeing for a career if it does not bring them fulfillment.
Pros and Cons of "Mini-Retirement"
Like any trend, "mini-retirement" comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, it allows young people to rest, gain experiences, and figure out what they truly want from life. This can be particularly beneficial for those who feel lost or burned out. Furthermore, "mini-retirement" provides opportunities for travel, exploring new cultures, and broadening one's horizons.
On the other hand, this approach requires careful planning. Not everyone can accumulate enough savings to support themselves for several years without work. Additionally, a prolonged career break may create challenges when re-entering the job market. Employers may view resumes with gaps skeptically.
What’s Next?
The trend of "mini-retirement" is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. On the contrary, it may become even more popular, especially amidst the growing automation and changes in the labor market. In the future, we may witness new formats of work and leisure that enable individuals to harmoniously combine their careers with personal lives.
For older generations, “mini-retirement” may seem strange or even frightening. However, for Gen Z, it represents a way to take control of their lives and resist societal pressure. Ultimately, each person decides how to live, and if "mini-retirement" helps young individuals achieve happiness, it might just be the answer they need.
"Mini-retirement" is not merely a trend, but a reflection of profound societal changes. Gen Z is showing that life is not solely about work and careers, but also about enjoying each moment. Some may label it as irresponsibility, while others may regard it as wisdom. One thing is certain: this trend prompts us to reflect on what truly matters in life, and perhaps this is its greatest value.
