Audio by carbonatix
A new study finds that Gen Z is taking “micro-retirements” from work. A “micro-retirement” is essentially a vacation.
Micro-retirements can take a few forms, according to the report, such as “quitting a job and finding a new job when you’re ready to work again, setting up a plan with your employer that allows you to take frequent unpaid breaks from work, and taking breaks from your business if you’re a business owner.”
This certainly isn’t the first time we’ve seen studies providing insight into Gen Z’s work habits, as it was previously found that 71% of Gen Z workers believe a four-day workweek would make jobs significantly more attractive.
“Gen Z is using micro-retirement to avoid burnout, find greater fulfillment in their work, and improve their overall well-being. However, it’s not just Gen Z: according to a side hustle survey, 10% of workers are considering micro-retirement, and 75% of employers have considered it.
“The idea is to take frequent, longer breaks from work throughout your career. These breaks aren’t your standard PTO—they’re intentional, unpaid breaks meant to rest and recharge.” [via Fast Company ]
They’re now calling vacations ‘micro-retirement’. pic.twitter.com/3d4p7f7hx4
— Bizlet (@bizlet7) July 6, 2025
By 2030, projections predict that Gen Z will represent 30% of the workforce and hold more than 50 million jobs. According to Deloitte, Gen Z is “more focused on work-life balance than climbing the corporate ladder—only 6% say their primary career goal is achieving a leadership position.”
Another recent workplace trend found among Gen Z employees is something called “Bathroom Camp.” Apparent bathroom camping involves going to the bathroom and then leaving there to refresh, reset, or just zone out.
Again, this isn’t a revolutionary idea – people have been taking dumps “on company time” for decades – Gen Z has just put a stamp on fashion by putting a name to it.
