For many years, the normal work path was simple: work hard for many years, save money, and retire when you get old. But now, more young people, especially Gen Z and millennials, are choosing a different way of living called “micro-retirements.” This means taking short breaks from work every few years to enjoy life.
The idea isn’t brand new; it became popular in 2007 when Timothy Ferriss wrote about it in his book “The 4-Hour Workweek.” Recently, social media has made it more popular, with people sharing stories about taking long breaks to travel, enjoy hobbies, or just rest from work stress.
Young workers today want a better balance between work and life. Last year, Gen Z workers began to outnumber Baby Boomers in the American job market, changing how work feels, according to reports.
At the same time, about 13% of retirees are thinking about going back to work in 2025, which some call “The Great Retiree Return.” Many young workers are adopting “micro-retirement,” taking short breaks throughout their careers.
Adama Lorna is a big supporter of this idea. After reading Ferriss’s book, she took a six-month break to travel and have fun. She says, “Instead of waiting until you’re old to explore the world, enjoy life while you’re young and healthy.”
Unlike regular sabbaticals, which usually require your boss’s approval, micro-retirements are more about making your own choices. People work for a few years, save money, and then take a break, repeating this pattern throughout their lives. Many hope to work three years and then take a year off, balancing work and play over a lifetime.
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