Misunderstandings and misconceptions often creep into discussions about different generations, especially when it comes to the work ethic and aspirations of younger individuals. Among the older generations, there is a prevailing view that the youth are increasingly seen as entitled, disrespectful, or even lazy. Conversely, younger demographics say they are making serious efforts despite looming economic uncertainty. But a recent TikTok video delves into the reasons for the younger generation’s apparent reluctance to follow traditional work norms, striking a chord with many who find this woman’s explanation resonating with their own experiences.
Speaking to the masses: TikTok
With over 12,000 followers, Mik, also known as @thatginger4567, recently shared a video that many believe sums up the essence of life for the younger generation. TikTok was uploaded in September 2023 and currently has over 14,000 comments. She starts her video by saying that she likes her job and would probably be “bored” if she wasn’t working. She contrasts this by explaining why her generation doesn’t want to work: “The purpose of work is to pay to live.” And that simply doesn’t apply anymore.
@thatginger4567 Why my generation is so “lazy” #costoflivingcrisis #inflation #genz #millenials #postgrad #recession ♬ original sound – Mik
People of my generation who went to college and completed all the required courses, worked hard in school, attended a prestigious university, got a de, gree and then started their first job, now they can’t support themselves.”
It offers a strong point of view
He also states that “we work an average of 40 to 60 hours a week. We also cannot afford to survive. Our income is simply not enough to cover the cost of rent and food. Everything is very expensive these days.” In addition, incomes are not growing at the pace of the cost of living, we cannot even afford to live, so we work full-time and devote a significant part of our lives to work,” he says.
“We have trouble making ends meet and buying food. Many of us work full-time and manage several side projects or handle two or three jobs. In my case, that’s the case. And the older generations just stare at us and say things like: ” You’re not working hard enough. It’s your fault.”
The tragic news does not end there
She then spends some time demonstrating that she has done the necessary research to support her claims. “We are worried about making ends meet because,e despite an increase in incomes of only 18%, the cost of living increased by 67% during the 1990s. Thus, living expenses are not held by earnings. live for it.” She reveals.
To summarize: “Everything is so much more expensive than it used to be, which is another reason why we are in massive debt. College is much more expensive than it used to be. The cost of cars has increased significantly over time. Housing costs have increased from they have increased significantly since then. In addition, our environment is being destroyed by politicians and older generations who do nothing to save it. Therefore, we have no idea if the world will still be habitable when we are older.
It really makes us rather cynical and nihilistic and discourages us from working.”
It should not surprise the older generations in the slightest that this will impact the younger generations as the older generations will have to go back to work and the cost of food and services has increased. Mik revealed that she was “frustrated” as a “young person in the workforce” and that’s why she made the video.
Depressing information discovered by others
Many quickly followed with comments that largely agreed with hers. “I’m so tired I don’t want to work, I don’t even want to be alive Imao, so forget about work.
One follower left a comment. “A crazy majority of us are 1 medical emergency or accident away from being completely homeless.” As another ruefully noted.
People are mistaken for replaceable parts of machines. We are forced to work for less than our lives are worth.” Another, perhaps semi-sarcastic statement.
Meanwhile, another person added: “FACTS! I put in 40 hours a week at my corporate job but I also have to run my shipyard services company to pay for my truck (2004) and house (1975). I want to live a glamorous life.”
This is the dire reality for many Americans. An increasing number of people find themselves homeless or without enough money to pay bills and buy groceries as many find it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of living. Some people try to attend school while working more than one job.
The statistics indicate a dramatic shift
The best years for college graduates were 1985 and 2000, according to the Self Financial Report released in 2023, as workers received about 81% of their “pretax salary left over after expenses.” On the other hand, compared to reports from 1984, college graduates today earn $7,000 less per year.
On the other hand, according to research from Trading Economics, Americans saw some relief from inflation in October, with the rate falling to 3.2% from 3.7% in August and September. In addition, the lower averages appeared to be reflected in fuel and electricity bills.
However, much respite is unlikely in the near term as inflation rates are still higher than expected. In addition, many people wonder if they will ever be able to balance their personal and professional lives.
The stark reality highlighted in the TikTok video and echoed by numerous comments reflects the profound challenges facing the younger generation in today’s workforce. The disparity between the rising cost of living and stagnant income levels creates an unsustainable scenario that pushes many into financial distress and a constant struggle to make ends meet.
Mike’s video highlights the frustration and disillusionment felt by a significant portion of the younger workforce. The statistics further confirm the hardships facing today’s college graduates, depicting an alarming decline in their financial stability compared to previous generations.
The ongoing fight against inflation exacerbates these challenges and challenges the prospect of achieving a harmonious balance between personal and work life. The fear of an uncertain future coupled with the growing burden of financial pressures creates a narrative that questions the feasibility of achieving financial stability and a fulfilling life.
This dialogue reflects a broader societal concern that transcends individual experiences and highlights the need for systemic change and proactive measures to address the economic disparities facing the younger generation. It is a call to action for policymakers, employers, and society as a whole to rethink existing structures and strive for a fairer and more sustainable future for the workforce.