^Gen Z, also known as the iGeneration or post-Millennials, is the generation born between 1997 and 2012. This generation is known for its tech-savviness, entrepreneurial spirit, and willingness to challenge the status quo. 

Traditionally, 90% of the workforce worked 9 to 5 days, with a set lunch break in between. While the 9 to 5 work model was the norm in the past, today's workers are increasingly looking for flexible and remote work opportunities, particularly from Gen Z.

A number of factors, including the increasing availability of remote work opportunities, the desire for work-life balance, and the changing attitudes of young people towards work and success, drive this trend. This article explores how Gen Z breaks free from the 9 to 5.

Too Much Comfort From Remote Work?

One of the main reasons why Gen Z is breaking free of the 9 to 5 is the increasing availability of remote work opportunities. With the rise of the gig economy and the emergence of online platforms that connect workers with employers, it has become easier than ever for people to find work that can be done from anywhere in the world. This has given young people the flexibility to create their own schedules and work on their own terms rather than being tied down to a traditional office job.

The Perfect Work-Life Balance

Another factor that is driving this trend is the desire for work-life balance. Many young people, particularly Gen Z, value experiences and personal growth over material possessions and financial success. They are willing to trade a high-paying job with long hours for one that allows them to have more time for hobbies, travel, and other activities that enrich their lives. 

This is reflected in the growing popularity of flexible work arrangements, such as part-time and freelance work, which give workers the ability to choose their own schedules and work on their own terms.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt

Success Is Being Redefined.

In addition to the availability of remote work opportunities and the desire for work-life balance, the changing attitudes of young people towards work and success are also contributing to the trend of breaking free from the 9 to 5. Many young people today view work as a means to an end rather than an end in itself. 

They are less likely to be motivated by traditional markers of success, such as climbing the corporate ladder or accumulating wealth, and more likely to prioritise fulfilment and personal growth. As a result, they are more willing to take risks and pursue unconventional career paths that allow them to follow their passions and interests.

Change Is Afoot Thanks to Technology.

One of the main reasons for this shift is the increasing availability of technology that makes remote work possible. With the rise of the internet and the widespread use of smartphones and laptops, it is now easier than ever for workers to stay connected and productive from anywhere in the world. This has opened up new opportunities for Gen Z workers who are looking to break free from the constraints of the 9 to 5 work model.

Rise of the Gig Economy

The rise of the gig economy has also contributed to the shift away from the 9 to 5 work model. The gig economy refers to the growing trend of workers taking on short-term, contract-based work rather than traditional full-time employment. This allows workers to have more control over their schedules and the type of work they do, which can be particularly appealing to Gen Z workers who value flexibility and autonomy.

Closing Thoughts

This generation is driven by a desire for autonomy and a need for work-life balance, and they are using technology to create their own opportunities and forge their own paths. As a result, the concept of the 9 to 5 workday is becoming increasingly obsolete, and companies will need to adapt to this changing landscape in order to attract and retain top talent from this generation.

^In today's fast-paced corporate world, the spotlight often shines on one metric: productivity. We're often lauded for our capacity to churn out work, with the mythical 100% productivity level dangling in front of us like a golden carrot. 

But let's pause and rethink. What if, in this relentless quest for absolute perfection, we're missing the mark? What if the real secret to a productive and balanced work-life isn't in pushing ourselves to the absolute brink, but in aiming for a more sustainable 85%? 

This might sound counterintuitive in a world obsessed with maxing out potential, but diving deeper, we might just find that this 85% approach is the missing piece in our modern work puzzle.

The Trap of 100% Productivity

The allure of 100% productivity is strong. We're conditioned to believe that it’s the gold standard of efficiency. Yet, diving deep, we find it's more of a trap.

Employees pushing relentlessly for this elusive 100% often find themselves on the brink of exhaustion. Imagine running a marathon at sprint speed - unsustainable and unhealthy. The cost? Burnouts, decreased mental well-being, and ironically, a dip in true productivity.

Take Sarah, a graphic designer at a top-tier firm. Chasing perfection, she worked late nights, skipped meals, and even sacrificed weekends. But her relentless chase led to chronic fatigue and, eventually, a two-month medical leave.

The Sweet Spot

Enter the game-changing perspective of business author Greg McKeown. He suggests 85% as the sweet spot of productivity. It’s not about doing less but doing sustainably.

At 85%, employees can maintain consistency, quality, and enthusiasm without burning the candle at both ends. It encourages a culture where work is essential, but so is well-being. It’s about giving your best, most days, without the overwhelming pressure of perfection.

The Science Behind 85%

When we talk about productivity, it's often cloaked in terms of output and deadlines. But there's a whole layer of science, both psychological and physiological, that underpins our capacity to work effectively. Let's dissect this.

The Physiology

Firstly, let's address the body. Steve Magness, an exercise physiologist, sheds light on the concept of "overtraining" in athletes. Just as athletes can't constantly push their bodies to the max without risking injury, employees can't constantly push their minds to the brink without detrimental effects. 

Our brains, like muscles, require periods of rest to recover and regenerate. When we consistently operate at 100%, we're essentially in a state of chronic "mental overtraining", which can lead to burnout, decreased cognitive function, and even mental health issues.

The Psychological Perspective

Now, on to the psychology of it. Aiming for 100% productivity can inadvertently set us up for a binary perspective: perfection or failure. This doesn't leave room for the gray areas of learning, growth, and innovation, which often happen when we're allowed to make mistakes and iterate. 

Psychologists have long championed the importance of a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as opportunities to learn rather than as threats. By setting a productivity goal of 85%, we mentally allow ourselves that buffer to experiment, fail, learn, and ultimately grow.

The Neuroscience Angle

Lastly, neuroscience offers another perspective. Our brain operates in cycles, with periods of high alertness followed by periods of rest. These are called ultradian rhythms. 

Typically, after 90 minutes of intensive work, our brain signals a need for a 20-minute break. Pushing beyond this natural cycle by aiming for constant 100% productivity can lead to diminishing returns in focus and output.

How to Implement the 85% Rule in Your Workplace

Incorporating the 85% rule into your workplace isn't just about changing a number on a performance sheet. It's about embracing a new philosophy of work, one that values sustainability, well-being, and holistic growth. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make this shift:

1. Begin with Awareness

Before diving into changes, initiate a dialogue. Host workshops or seminars that shed light on the science and philosophy behind the 85% rule. Employees are more likely to embrace a change when they understand its rationale and potential benefits.

2. Set Realistic, Compassionate Goals

Rethink target setting. While it's essential to maintain ambition, ensure that your goals are both challenging and achievable. Instead of pushing teams to their limits every single time, offer them a spectrum of targets that prioritize quality over sheer quantity.

3. Foster a Culture of Well-being

Move away from the "all work and no play" mindset. Introduce wellness programs that cater to both physical and mental health. This could range from meditation sessions, and ergonomic workshops, to even short breaks for relaxation. Remember, a well-rested employee is a more productive one.

4. Promote Open Communication

Create safe spaces for employees to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and offer feedback. Whether through regular check-ins, town hall meetings, or anonymous feedback systems, ensure that there's a two-way communication channel.

5. Rethink Assessment Metrics

Shift the focus from purely quantitative outputs to more qualitative ones. This might mean valuing creativity, innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as much as, if not more than, sheer output.

In a world that often glorifies the hustle, the 85% rule offers a refreshing, sustainable, and, ironically, more productive alternative. Implementing it requires intention, effort, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of your team. But the rewards, both in terms of output and employee happiness, make it well worth the effort.

Conclusion

The quest for 100% productivity is a mirage. It promises an oasis but often leads to a desert of burnout and dissatisfaction. On the other hand, 85% is not just a number but a philosophy - one that champions sustainable effort, well-being, and a holistic approach to work.

Companies and employees alike stand to benefit immensely. It's high time we redefine success, not by the relentless grind but by the balanced, joyful, and sustainable journey. So, here's a challenge: Aim for 85% and watch both happiness and productivity soar.