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Generation Z’s Shift to Non-Traditional Careers for Financial Stability

  • Writer: Peyton Widen
    Peyton Widen
  • 17 hours ago
  • 2 min read
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Rent prices are rising, student loan debt is increasing, and the job market is worsening. Generation Z, often shortened to Gen Z is entering into the adult world with difficult conditions. This is leaving lots of the Gen Z population wondering if the traditional college and 9-5 route is still the best way to go. It turns out that lots of young professionals are trying to piece together multiple side hustles to achieve financial independence. If done successfully, this can be a great alternative for young adults looking for financial security in an unfavorable time for those emerging into the workforce.  


Yahoo did a study and found that more than half of Gen Z workers say money stress is negatively affecting their mental health. This study didn’t even include people who aren't working a traditional job after school. Their stress levels might even be higher as most of them don’t have a consistent form of income to pay for things like high rent or payments towards debt. Some of the side hustles we see from Gen Z include nannying, graphic design, drop shipping, voiceover work, and more.  

 

It is not just the unique side hustles people in Gen Z are doing; it’s also the amount of these type of gigs or part time jobs they are doing at once just to keep up. Essence reports that 67% of Gen Z believe having multiple income streams is key to financial security. Given how unstable the job market can be, platforms like TikTok and Etsy make it easier than ever to turn hobbies into income. However, sometimes having too many forms of smaller income can lead to even more stress. It is important to find the right combination of sources of income to cover expenses while having enough time to keep your mental health in as good a condition as you can.  

 

This shift in Gen Z has big implications for the future of work. Employers might need to rework how they approach the evolving needs of young workers, in regard to flexibility, better pay, and mental health support. As the job market continues to become a concern, Gen Z is finding creative sources of income rather than waiting for the job market to improve. They are making the most of digital side hustles to rely on as their income to keep up with today's economy.  


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