Summary
Younger generations are embracing “micro-retirements,” short sabbaticals or lifestyle shifts, to combat burnout and improve work-life balance.
This trend is fueled by pandemic-related stress, declining workplace flexibility, and increased burnout reports.
Millennials and Gen Z, facing financial and mental health pressures, are prioritizing their well-being, even at the expense of promotions, as they reject the traditional career model of working until age 65.
Meanwhile, older generations like boomers and Gen X struggle to retire due to financial insecurity and rising costs, with many “unretiring” to stretch limited savings.
Some are bored and going part time back to work. Others have had inflation smash them in the face and have no choice. I feel for the ones that have to go back. Their bosses are going to hammer them.