Corporate Wellness Programs
'Gen Zen': younger workers prefer balance over burnout
A new report reveals that younger workers seek leadership roles but prioritize wellbeing and personal values, challenging traditional workplace norms.
A new report from the online polling platform Survey Monkey reveals that younger workers prioritize balancing their well-being and personal values with their careers, even among those who are ambitious for growth and leadership.
The 2025 Workplace Culture and Trends report highlighted this ‘Gen Zen' mindset. It surveyed about 3,500 U.S. full-time workers on shifting priorities among Gen Z and their impact on the workplace.
The survey found that Gen Z workers view after-hours communication differently from their older colleagues. Around 19% say they feel happy when receiving work-related messages outside of their shift, compared to just 7% of Gen X. Of the Gen Z respondents who received such messages, 30% said it made them feel appreciated or needed.
Despite 77% of Gen Z workers claiming a 'healthy' work-life balance, 67% still believe giving up some personal time is essential for career success.
The report also suggests that younger workers view career growth as a personal matter rather than one solely tied to a single company. Only 28% of Gen Z respondents say they're satisfied with their current role, significantly lower than the 47% satisfaction rate among their Gen X colleagues. Furthermore, one in three Gen Z (33%) said they prefer switching companies to advance their careers, compared to just 22% of Gen X.
Despite this desire for personal control and well-being, four out of five (80%) Gen Z employees aspire to reach top leadership roles, reflecting their ambition, aligning with the preference for career paths that respect personal boundaries.
However, personal priorities often take a backseat, with 91% saying they wait to reach a certain income level before pursuing major life milestones like purchasing a home or starting a family.
Across the broader workforce, employees from all age groups are starting to challenge traditional workplace norms and seeking new ways to achieve balance. When asked what workplace expectations feel most realistic, top responses included mental health days/unlimited PTO and consistent praise or validation.
Around 72% of respondents also have or are looking for a side hustle, highlighting the demand for flexibility and diversified paths to success.
Wendy Smith, senior manager for research science at SurveyMonkey, said the report signals that employers must recognize "balance and values are the new currency of workplace success."
"The research makes it clear that Gen Z is ambitious, but on their own terms," Smith said.
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