Gen Z’s Evolving Work Ethic The Shift from Hustle Culture to Purpose-Driven Careers – The Anthropological Roots of Gen Z’s Work Ethic

The origins of Gen Z’s work ethic can be traced back to the anthropological influences that shaped their formative years. This generation, born into a world marked by economic instability and global crises like the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, has developed a unique perspective on the workplace. Their experiences have led to a greater emphasis on stability and security, moving away from the relentless pursuit of productivity and profit that defined previous generations. The constant connectivity and digital fluency that characterize Gen Z have not only redefined communication in the workplace but have also heightened their awareness of mental health and well-being. This heightened awareness has fueled a desire for work that aligns with their personal values and provides a sense of purpose, contrasting with the traditional idea of “hustle culture”. Gen Z’s focus on purpose-driven careers and a healthier work-life balance challenges the assumptions ingrained in traditional workforce models. Examining these fundamental anthropological roots helps us understand the changing landscape of the workplace and the evolving expectations that define Gen Z’s relationship with their careers. It raises crucial questions about how we define success and productivity in a world where mental health and personal fulfillment are increasingly prioritized.

Examining Gen Z’s work ethic through an anthropological lens reveals fascinating parallels with historical trends and societal shifts. This generation, shaped by events like the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizes education and skills development, a continuation of humanity’s inherent drive for knowledge as a survival tool. This focus on learning is a constant thread throughout history, a reflection of our species’ adaptable nature.

Instead of embracing the relentless “hustle culture” promoted by prior generations, Gen Z leans towards work-life balance, a pattern observable during various historical periods of economic uncertainty and societal stress. There’s a sense that periods of hardship have a way of re-calibrating our values and desires, pushing us towards a greater appreciation for well-being.

Interestingly, their preference for purpose-driven careers mirrors a long-term shift in how we perceive work. No longer solely a means of survival, work has evolved into a pathway for self-discovery and personal fulfillment. This progression is easily seen from our agrarian roots to the complexities of industrial societies. Each step has changed the way we relate to our work and the place it has in society.

Technology’s rapid integration into the workplace has led Gen Z to redefine productivity itself. It’s not just about quantifiable output. Instead, they prioritize mental health and overall satisfaction, reminiscent of ancient philosophical debates surrounding the very essence of meaningful work. This idea that what we produce must have value beyond its production has always been a subject of debate.

Furthermore, a trend toward collectivism, with emphasis on community and collaboration, is evident in Gen Z’s approach. This contrasts with the individualistic focus of prior generations, echoing cross-cultural observations of collectivist societies that prize shared goals. Perhaps the recent experience of global crises has fostered a greater awareness that success is something better shared.

The younger generation’s hesitancy about the concept of “burnout” is rooted in both personal and societal experiences. Growing up amidst conversations that normalized mental health discussions destigmatizes the effects of overwork. This understanding can be traced back to historical patterns of labor exploitation, as societies have continually grappled with protecting the wellbeing of workers.

The rise of remote work during the pandemic gave Gen Z an unparalleled perspective on employment flexibility. They’re now challenging conventional office structures, a parallel to historical labor movements seeking improved working conditions. The ability to work away from traditional offices has shifted the relationship workers have with their employers and the very nature of the working relationship.

Anthropologists posit that Gen Z’s yearning for authenticity originates from their experience with “fake news” and disinformation. They crave genuine connections within the workplace, marking a departure from the image-obsessed social media culture that preceded them. This search for real connections is reflective of a much older human desire for trust and stability in a world that can often feel fleeting.

We also see that Gen Z is more inclined to seek employment aligned with personal values—a significant divergence from previous generations who often prioritized stability above all else. This shift reflects a broader historical tendency towards employee empowerment and ethical labor practices. This means that what we do for work is intrinsically tied to our values as individuals.

Philosophically, Gen Z’s questioning of corporate loyalty and authority is reminiscent of sentiments expressed in post-World War II labor movements. It signifies a continual struggle for worker autonomy, with each new generation facing economic uncertainty and navigating new challenges. This sense of agency is the foundation of innovation and improvement and represents the enduring drive to improve the way we work.

Gen Z’s Evolving Work Ethic The Shift from Hustle Culture to Purpose-Driven Careers – From Industrial Revolution to Digital Age Work Culture

The shift from the Industrial Revolution’s factory-centric work model to the digitally-driven landscape of today has profoundly altered how we view work and its place in our lives, particularly for Gen Z. This generation, unlike those who came before, prioritizes a healthy balance between personal well-being and professional output, finding meaning in their work rather than solely focusing on relentless productivity. The digital tools and technologies that Gen Z grew up with are now the building blocks of their working lives, ushering in a new era of flexibility and independence that contrasts starkly with the rigid, hierarchical structures of the past. As Gen Z steps into the workforce, their strong leanings toward social consciousness and purpose-driven careers highlight a wider societal shift – one that moves away from seeing work solely as a means to survive and towards it being a force for positive impact. This evolution compels us to re-evaluate how we define success and productivity in a world that is increasingly interconnected and unpredictable, prompting a necessary rethinking of the relationship between individuals, their work, and the larger society.

The Industrial Revolution brought about a dramatic transformation, not just in how things were made but also in how we work. Factories and the need for consistent, timed labor fundamentally changed the rhythm of work, contrasting starkly with the more seasonal, nature-driven labor of agrarian societies. This shift towards a regimented, factory-based model laid the groundwork for a new kind of work culture.

The specialization of labor that arose during this time, coupled with the “Taylorism” approach to management, aimed to maximize efficiency by breaking down tasks into highly specific components. This approach, while effective in increasing production, arguably alienated workers from the broader creative aspects of their work. The echoes of this separation, the dissatisfaction with monotonous tasks, are still apparent in today’s workforce and contribute to the rising anxieties about job fulfillment we observe in Gen Z.

In the later part of the 20th century, there was a gradual movement away from the strict hierarchical structure of the workplace toward a more horizontal organization. This mirrors ancient democratic ideals that highlighted the benefits of collective decision-making, which aligns with the desire for more collaborative workplaces seen among many Gen Z employees.

The advent of the digital age threw a wrench into the established concept of productivity. The ability to work asynchronously, facilitated by various communication technologies, has increasingly challenged the traditional 9-to-5 model. It’s now becoming clear that, in many fields, productivity is tied to outcomes rather than a fixed schedule.

The growing prominence of mental health within work culture is not a recent development. Its roots can be traced back to the early 20th century when the psychological impact of industrial labor started to be recognized. It’s quite interesting that research suggests a strong link between prioritizing mental health and improved productivity. This highlights a powerful and somewhat overlooked connection between a fulfilling work experience and overall well-being.

The rise of the gig economy, enabled by the internet and digital platforms, has drastically altered the relationship between workers and employers. It’s reminiscent of historical transformations in labor structures, like the transition from apprenticeship-based training to a world of freelancers. The necessity to adapt, driven by economic realities, has always been a compelling force shaping the way we work.

Gen Z’s desire for genuine connections and authenticity in their work echoes humanity’s age-old quest for belonging and trust. These are themes that have fascinated philosophers and thinkers across the ages, particularly in the field of existentialism. This craving for authentic experiences, driven by the widespread feeling that truth is often elusive, is a reaction to a post-truth era brimming with misinformation and skepticism.

The digital age has elevated the need for continuous learning and adaptability. Unlike prior generations, who often focused on achieving long-term stability within a single career path, Gen Z appears to emphasize lifelong learning and a broader collection of skills. It’s a concept with echoes of the Renaissance ideal of acquiring a wide array of knowledge and expertise.

History teaches us that periods of substantial economic upheaval often result in a reassessment of values. We’ve seen this cyclical pattern before, as the challenges faced during the Industrial Revolution mirror some of the difficulties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the current age of rapid technological advancement. People consistently seek purpose and fulfillment when times are uncertain and tumultuous.

The move towards flexible work arrangements has always been a point of tension between employers and employees. A review of the post-World War II labor movement highlights the long-standing struggle over worker autonomy. Current requests for remote work and diverse career paths build on the historical fight for worker rights and dignity, showcasing how the pursuit of a just and equitable work culture remains a constant, albeit evolving, topic of discussion.

Gen Z’s Evolving Work Ethic The Shift from Hustle Culture to Purpose-Driven Careers – Philosophical Underpinnings of Purpose-Driven Careers

Gen Z’s pursuit of purpose-driven careers is not simply a workplace trend, but a philosophical shift in how they view work’s role in their lives. This generation, shaped by a world of rapid technological change and economic instability, seeks work that is not merely a means to an end but a source of personal meaning and positive societal impact. Their desire to align their careers with their values and broader social concerns echoes centuries-old philosophical debates about the purpose of life and the relationship between individual fulfillment and the collective good. This focus on a holistic approach to well-being challenges the traditional, often narrow, definition of success that emphasized relentless productivity and profit maximization.

Furthermore, Gen Z’s inherent questioning of corporate hierarchies and unwavering loyalty reflects a deep-seated desire for autonomy and control over their work lives. This sentiment mirrors historical labor movements that fought for worker rights and improved conditions, showcasing the enduring human desire to shape their work environments. In a sense, their actions demonstrate a continued evolution of this struggle, adapting to the complexities of the modern economy. This generation’s work ethic pushes us to rethink what constitutes success and how we measure productivity, shifting the emphasis to a more balanced approach that considers both personal and collective impact. Essentially, Gen Z is redefining success in a way that prioritizes human well-being and societal contribution alongside traditional metrics, ultimately forcing a reassessment of the relationship between work and individual fulfillment in the modern world.

The philosophical underpinnings of Gen Z’s pursuit of purpose-driven careers are deeply intertwined with broader historical and societal trends. Thinkers like Sartre and Camus, key figures in existentialism, highlighted the individual’s responsibility to forge their own meaning in an often indifferent world. Gen Z’s emphasis on finding fulfillment in their work strongly aligns with this idea, moving away from the traditional measures of success, such as wealth and status.

Furthermore, growing research indicates a strong connection between engaging in meaningful work and improved mental and emotional well-being. Individuals who find purpose in their jobs tend to experience fewer instances of depression and anxiety. This reinforces the notion that work can be a vital component of overall health and happiness, a concept that has been somewhat overlooked in past generations’ views of labor.

The historical record of labor movements also provides context. The late 19th and 20th-century labor movements were often centered around workers’ rights, including the right to meaningful work. Gen Z’s desire for autonomy and roles that align with personal values echoes these earlier struggles, showcasing the ongoing fight for worker rights and dignity.

Interestingly, the increasing automation of industries is pushing the world towards a shift from labor-intensive jobs to roles requiring creativity and innovation. It’s reminiscent of other transitions in human labor history and demonstrates our continuous search for productive and fulfilling ways to engage with work. This shift necessitates rethinking what it means to be productive in a world where tasks traditionally done by people are increasingly automated.

The ancient Greek concept of eudaimonia, often translated as “flourishing” or “living well”, provides another insightful lens. The Greeks saw virtue and personal fulfillment as fundamental to a good life. We see this reflected in Gen Z’s approach to work, emphasizing self-actualization and growth, not just survival.

Gen Z’s tendency towards teamwork and collective goals, rather than solely individual achievement, is also noteworthy. Anthropological research on collectivist societies indicates a strong emphasis on the well-being of the group over individual success. This trend represents a noticeable shift from earlier generations’ emphasis on individual advancement and raises questions about how societies might find new ways to measure success.

When viewed through the lens of cultural anthropology, it becomes clear that the human need for purpose and belonging is a universal theme. Throughout history, tribes and communities have relied on shared purposes to build identity and structure. Gen Z’s desire for work that is aligned with their values could be viewed as a modern iteration of this innate human drive.

The philosophical roots of Gen Z’s questioning of authority run deep. The Enlightenment and its emphasis on reason and personal agency played a key role in promoting critical thinking and challenging traditional power structures. This spirit of skepticism resonates with Gen Z’s inclination to critically examine societal norms and power dynamics, including those within the workplace.

Historically, increased productivity hasn’t always been synonymous with worker well-being. Gen Z’s focus on mental health and job satisfaction challenges traditional metrics of productivity, prompting a re-evaluation of what constitutes a meaningful outcome. This approach compels us to think more holistically about productivity and its impact on workers.

Finally, the impact of rapid technological change on workplace dynamics is also profound. The transition from agrarian to industrial economies was a dramatic shift, and today’s technology-driven changes have a similar impact. The need for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving landscape mirrors challenges faced in previous eras of dramatic societal upheaval. It emphasizes the enduring nature of humanity’s quest for meaningful work in a changing world.

These philosophical underpinnings are not just abstract concepts. They offer a framework for understanding the evolving nature of work and the crucial role that purpose and well-being play in the lives of the younger generation. By understanding these factors, employers and society at large can better adapt to create work environments that are more meaningful and sustainable for everyone.

Gen Z’s Evolving Work Ethic The Shift from Hustle Culture to Purpose-Driven Careers – The Role of Religion in Shaping Gen Z’s Career Values

Gen Z’s relationship with religion and spirituality plays a notable role in shaping their career choices, adding another layer to the evolving narrative of their work ethic. Though a substantial portion of Gen Z doesn’t identify with traditional religions, those who do often find their beliefs influencing their professional goals. This desire for purpose-driven careers reflects a move away from the relentless focus on productivity and profit associated with “hustle culture” and instead embraces work that aligns with their personal values and contributes to something larger than themselves. It’s as if the quest for authenticity and trust they express in the workplace is partly informed by the underlying principles found in their spiritual beliefs, challenging the standard, often transactional, nature of the employer-employee relationship. In essence, many within Gen Z seem to see fulfilling careers not merely as a means to financial security but as a pathway for personal development and making a positive contribution to society. They’re essentially redefining success beyond the financial, creating a space where work serves a deeper purpose.

While a significant portion of Gen Z identifies as religiously unaffiliated, a substantial number, nearly 60%, believe their religious or spiritual beliefs play a major role in their career choices. This is a departure from older generations who often compartmentalized their faith from their professional lives. Interestingly, those with stronger religious ties seem more inclined towards jobs that align with societal impact rather than just financial rewards, indicating a potential shift in what constitutes a successful career.

This doesn’t necessarily suggest that Gen Z is more religiously devout than previous generations. Instead, it suggests that religious involvement can be a source of stability and community in the face of workplace instability. The data suggests a correlation between active religious communities and higher job satisfaction coupled with lower burnout rates. It’s as though the social support networks found in religious groups can act as a buffer against some of the stressors of modern work environments.

Beyond the social aspect, many Gen Z individuals, over 40%, believe that their religious beliefs provide a framework for making ethical decisions at work. They’re seeking a more principled approach to navigating the complexities and challenges they encounter. This is also a reflection of the customized approach Gen Z takes towards faith. It’s not a rigid adherence to dogma, but rather a way to merge spiritual beliefs with contemporary work values.

There’s a fascinating intersection between faith and mental well-being within this cohort. Despite 70% feeling pressured to perform at work, Gen Z individuals affiliated with a religious community report lower levels of workplace anxiety. This highlights the potential of faith communities to provide a sense of comfort and support during stressful times.

Gen Z’s integration of religious values into their work ethic echoes historical trends. Just as labor movements sought improvements in work conditions in previous centuries, Gen Z’s emphasis on purpose and fulfillment seems to be a continuation of this struggle for a more meaningful and fulfilling work experience.

Furthermore, the emphasis on mental health within Gen Z’s work preferences mirrors a growing awareness seen in many religious traditions. Holistic well-being and care for the individual, rather than just productivity, are becoming more prominent in workplace discussions. This intersection between religious values and modern work culture could lead to a more comprehensive understanding of what constitutes success and well-being in the professional world.

The rise of remote work is another interesting angle. It provides greater flexibility, a factor often appreciated in religious communities that may prioritize personal practices or community involvement. This shift can allow Gen Z to create professional lives that accommodate both their career ambitions and spiritual needs.

Perhaps there’s something to be learned from the resilience often observed in communities with strong religious ties. Research indicates that these communities can navigate economic upheavals more effectively. This suggests that Gen Z’s faith-integrated approach to work could foster more adaptive and supportive work environments, something that might be especially beneficial in our increasingly uncertain job market.

In conclusion, while Gen Z’s relationship with religion is complex and diverse, it’s clear that for a substantial portion, it plays a crucial role in shaping their career goals, values, and approach to work. Their pursuit of purpose-driven careers and emphasis on mental well-being intersect in interesting ways with their religious beliefs, potentially reshaping our understanding of work in a rapidly changing world.

Gen Z’s Evolving Work Ethic The Shift from Hustle Culture to Purpose-Driven Careers – Entrepreneurship in the Age of Meaning Over Money

In today’s evolving professional landscape, “Entrepreneurship in the Age of Meaning Over Money” represents a major shift in Gen Z’s approach to work. This generation, with its widespread engagement in side hustles and a strong inclination towards entrepreneurship, prioritizes purpose over pure profit. They seek not only the freedom and flexibility of being their own boss but also a connection between their work and their personal values. The emphasis on environmentally conscious practices and social impact within their entrepreneurial endeavors reflects a broader cultural change. Gen Z envisions work as a vehicle for positive societal change, challenging the traditional idea that work primarily exists for financial gain. This divergence from the relentless productivity culture of previous generations forces us to reassess our definitions of success and how we measure productivity. It pushes us to recognize that the value of work extends beyond financial rewards and into a broader realm of contributing to something larger than oneself. In essence, the entrepreneurial spirit of Gen Z is ushering in a future where personal fulfillment and meaningful contributions are central, fundamentally reshaping our understanding of work and its role in society.

The rise of Gen Z entrepreneurship is undeniably linked to a broader cultural shift – a move away from prioritizing money above all else and towards finding meaning in work. This trend, evident in the fact that a significant portion of Gen Z are either starting businesses or actively considering doing so, speaks to a deeper societal change. It’s not just about financial gain, but a yearning for work that aligns with their values and provides a sense of purpose. Companies that prioritize social responsibility and ethical conduct are increasingly attractive to this generation, suggesting a potential evolution in corporate responsibility.

It seems traditional motivators, like financial compensation, are losing some of their power for this generation. Research indicates that Gen Z’s job satisfaction is more tied to intrinsic motivators – purpose and a sense of fulfillment – than purely external factors. This suggests a fascinating shift in how we understand work motivation and what truly drives employee engagement. We’ve seen this pattern before, with economic hardship often causing a societal re-evaluation of the purpose of work. Gen Z’s current focus on meaningful work seems to echo this historical trend.

Gen Z’s desire for flexibility in the workplace isn’t entirely novel. Throughout history, labor movements have fought for better working conditions and worker rights, highlighting a desire for autonomy in the workplace. Gen Z’s pursuit of this autonomy is part of that ongoing dialogue, a continuation of the drive for worker dignity and respect.

Psychology suggests a fascinating connection between meaningful work and mental health. When people feel their work aligns with their values, they tend to experience reduced anxiety and depression. This aligns with Gen Z’s emphasis on mental well-being and raises questions about how we design workplaces to better support individuals’ overall health.

Furthermore, this generation is less likely to view job security as a single, fixed position. Their willingness to juggle multiple careers and side hustles highlights a nuanced understanding of career development. They’re creating a portfolio of experiences that contribute to their professional growth and perhaps their economic security in an increasingly volatile job market. This mirrors a broader trend towards lifelong learning, reflecting the adaptability needed in a fast-changing world.

Interestingly, skepticism towards corporate loyalty is another hallmark of Gen Z’s work ethic. It’s reminiscent of the post-war labor movement which questioned the perceived sanctity of traditional employer-employee relationships. This generation is questioning the inherent power dynamics at play in traditional workplace structures, driving a new conversation about fair treatment and worker rights.

The role of religion and spirituality also appears to be a factor in shaping Gen Z’s work ethic. Data suggests that for many within this generation, spiritual practices and beliefs lead to higher job satisfaction and lower workplace stress. It hints at the importance of social support networks and the sense of community that religious institutions can provide, potentially buffering individuals from some of the stressors of modern work life.

Their collaborative approach to work, emphasizing teamwork and collective goals, seems to be a reflection of broader societal shifts towards more democratic structures. It echoes ancient ideals of shared decision-making and governance, suggesting the possibility of a fundamental shift in corporate hierarchies towards more inclusive workplace cultures.

Gen Z’s focus on overall well-being at work highlights a crucial shift in our conception of productivity. By incorporating mental health into their understanding of a successful workplace, they’re challenging older paradigms that solely emphasized output and quantitative measures of success. This holistic view could lead to a significant rethinking of workplace norms and create a more sustainable and fulfilling work experience for everyone.

In essence, this generation is fundamentally redefining what it means to work, pushing for a more meaningful and purpose-driven experience. They are shaping a future of work where purpose and well-being are as essential as traditional measures of success, potentially changing the landscape of the workplace for generations to come.

Gen Z’s Evolving Work Ethic The Shift from Hustle Culture to Purpose-Driven Careers – The Productivity Paradox Low Output, High Purpose

“The Productivity Paradox: Low Output, High Purpose” highlights a fascinating tension in Gen Z’s approach to work. While previous generations often equated success with tireless output, Gen Z is increasingly prioritizing personal fulfillment and meaning. They’ve witnessed economic instability and societal shifts, leading them to question the relentless pursuit of productivity championed by older generations. This manifests in trends like “quiet quitting” and “bed rotting,” which reveal a rejection of the constant pressure to maximize output. Instead, Gen Z emphasizes a healthier work-life balance and the importance of finding purpose in their work, even if it means lower output in traditional metrics. This shift challenges businesses to rethink how they measure productivity and define success. The emphasis is now shifting to outcomes that include a greater focus on societal impact and individual well-being. This rethinking of productivity will ultimately reshape future workplace expectations and force a reevaluation of how we, as a society, define individual and collective flourishing.

The productivity paradox, a phenomenon where output hasn’t kept pace with technological advancements, particularly noticeable in the US during the latter half of the 20th century, is increasingly relevant in light of Gen Z’s evolving work ethic. While traditional metrics often equate productivity with sheer output, a growing body of evidence suggests that a focus on well-being can paradoxically lead to higher-quality results. This challenges the age-old belief that more hours worked automatically translates to higher productivity. Looking back through history, we see echoes of this in the writings of thinkers like Aristotle who emphasized a life of flourishing, or eudaimonia. Gen Z’s desire to find meaning in their work seems to be a modern echo of this very ancient idea. The concept of meaningful work, a search for fulfillment in one’s profession, isn’t new, but a recurring thread throughout human history, dating back to ancient societies where work wasn’t simply a transaction, but a core aspect of a collective identity.

Interestingly, we can also see that the shift toward purpose-driven careers is a fascinating example of an anthropological trend related to social structures. Ancient cultures, focused on communal goals for survival, stand in stark contrast to the late 20th century’s boom era where individualism held sway. This transition offers a new perspective on the way we measure success. Psychological studies have consistently shown a strong correlation between a sense of purpose in work and reduced stress or burnout. Meaningful work appears to have a positive impact on mental health, and this directly contradicts the traditional way we often view workplace success.

The rise of the gig economy, while seemingly novel, mirrors numerous historical instances where human societies transitioned from more rigid work structures, often related to agricultural seasons, to more flexible arrangements. We find examples of this in the work of artisans and freelancers going back centuries. The flexibility that these workers had, the ability to control their own time and schedule, seems to be a constant thread in how humans interact with work. Furthermore, roughly 60% of Gen Z indicates that their spiritual or religious beliefs significantly influence their career choices. This presents a notable departure from previous generations who often kept their personal faith separate from their professional lives. The social and emotional support derived from a shared faith appears to provide a level of resilience in increasingly volatile job markets.

Gen Z’s penchant for entrepreneurship likely stems from broader economic instability. Similar patterns can be seen following historical periods of significant economic upheaval like the Great Depression and the 2008 recession. It seems that during times of uncertainty, people are more likely to explore innovative solutions to their economic situations, thus stimulating growth and entrepreneurship. With increasing automation of tasks, our societies have continuously redefined what constitutes productive work. This paradigm shift is becoming increasingly evident as we move forward in the 21st century. It’s pushing the boundaries of what constitutes valuable skills in the workforce with many Gen Z members prioritizing creativity and critical thinking skills.

Another fascinating trend is the increased level of skepticism surrounding corporate loyalty. This mirrors the social justice movements of the 20th century, when workers pushed for greater autonomy and fairer treatment. This movement continues, albeit in a different form, with modern employees seeking a greater voice in their working environments, thus driving a fresh dialogue about equity in the workplace. Individuals who feel supported and connected to a broader community tend to experience lower levels of anxiety and stress. This observation has long-lasting anthropological roots, harkening back to traditional cultures where community and social support played a significant role. The modern workplace, with its often individualistic nature, may benefit from considering more community-focused solutions for employee wellness.

By recognizing these broader historical and anthropological trends, we can gain a deeper understanding of the factors shaping Gen Z’s work ethic. We can then work towards building work environments that cater to this generation’s desire for meaning, autonomy, and overall well-being. This will be vital as the world of work evolves, and we continue to witness the rapid changes brought about by technological innovation.