As a proud member of Gen Z and the Social Media Coordinator for MyLLife Inc—a nonprofit focused on education, community service, and interfaith unity—I’ve seen firsthand how our generation is redefining what success looks like. For us, success isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder or gaining wealth. It’s about finding balance, living with purpose, and creating a meaningful impact on the world around us.
Balance is the New Hustle
Our generation grew up witnessing the pitfalls of hustle culture. We’ve seen burnout take a toll on mental health, and many of us felt the strain of non-stop productivity during the pandemic. That’s why we prioritize balance in everything we do.
For me, balance means carving out time to recharge, connect with loved ones, and focus on my mental well-being. This mindset is shared by so many of my peers, who believe that true success comes from maintaining a healthy relationship with work, not letting it consume us.
Purpose Over Paychecks
For Gen Z, finding purpose in our careers is essential. Whether it’s through nonprofits, startups that prioritize sustainability, or companies with strong social responsibility initiatives, we’re driven by a desire to make a difference.
It’s not just about big, sweeping changes—it’s about the everyday impact we have. At MyLLife, I use social media to amplify stories of young people making a difference in their communities. Seeing others inspired to take action because of our work feels far more fulfilling than any traditional measure of success.
Redefining Financial Success
For Gen Z, financial success isn’t about luxury cars or mansions—it’s about achieving stability while staying true to our values. Many of us are rethinking the way we approach money, focusing on paying down student loans, saving for experiences, or investing in ventures that reflect our commitment to sustainability and social justice.
I’ve seen this play out in my own life and through my work at MyLLife Inc. Our programs often support students who are pursuing career opportunities that don’t always promise immediate financial rewards but align with their larger goals of community impact.
Building a Better Future
As Gen Z continues to challenge social norms, we’re proving that success doesn’t have to fit into a one-size-fits-all box. It can mean building a career that reflects your values, finding balance in a chaotic world, or making a difference in someone’s life.
To me, and to so many of us in Gen Z, success is about more than where we end up. It’s about how we get there, the lives we touch along the way, and the purpose that drives us forward. And in 2025, that’s a definition I’m proud to live by!
