Let’s be real—burnout isn't just for boomers. Gen Z is entering the workforce in a world of side hustles, always-on expectations, and no clear "off" button. As we head into Q3, the vibes are off—and it's time for a reset.
Signs You're Burnt Out (Even If You're Still Logging In)
- Your energy is on 1% but you’re pretending to be at 100%
- You're doom scrolling between meetings
- Your brain fog has brain fog
- You hate your job... but also don’t know what you’d rather do
Why Gen Z Is Burning Out Faster
- Hustle Culture Hangover: We grew up thinking busy = successful
- Remote Work Blur: Work, life, and memes all live on the same screen
- Financial Anxiety: Inflation, student loans, and trying to move out of your parents’ house
- Overachiever Pressure: Always chasing the next thing to stay relevant
How to Reset for Q3 Without Quitting Everything
- Use Your PTO: It’s not a trap. Rest days are your right.
- Try Quiet Ambition: Focus on meaningful progress, not constant hustle.
- Make Mental Health Non-Negotiable: Therapy apps like BetterHelp or Real are made for your generation.
- Re-evaluate the Job, Not Just Yourself: Maybe it’s the company—not you.
- Get a Digital Detox Buddy: Set goals like “No TikTok after 9” and keep each other accountable.
Gen Z Burnout Recovery That Actually Works
- Create a “Joy List” for Your Work Week- Not everything about your job has to suck. Write down 3 tiny things that spark joy at work—like a funny Slack message, a project you low-key enjoy, or even your favorite Spotify playlist. Keep them visible when the burnout brain fog rolls in.
- Start a “Career Group Chat”- Burnout feels worse when you think you're alone. Start a private group chat with 2–3 friends or coworkers where you can vent, share job wins, or crowdsource advice. It’s like group therapy, but with memes.
- Try Career Cross-Training- Feeling stuck? Try spending 30 minutes a week exploring a skill outside your main job (graphic design, email marketing, podcasting—whatever excites you). It might help you pivot or just reignite your curiosity.
- Negotiate for Flexibility- Gen Z knows that mental health is non-negotiable—so start negotiating. Ask for flex hours, async options, or even a 4-day trial week. You’d be surprised what’s possible when you ask.
- Celebrate Micro-Wins- Don’t wait for a raise or title change. Survived a rough week? That counts. Scheduled a therapy session? Huge. Every little win is a step out of burnout and toward balance.
TL;DR
You don’t have to wait until you're 40 to start taking burnout seriously. Gen Z is leading the conversation on work-life balance—don’t let it stop at the hashtag. Make Q3 the quarter you reclaim your energy and work on your own terms.