^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.

^Blue is a calming colour that is often associated with feelings of peace and tranquillity. This is why many people find that being around blue spaces, such as a clear blue sky or a deep blue ocean, can make them feel better. 

Spending time in blue spaces with a lot of blue in the colour scheme – can positively affect our mental health and well-being. The colour blue has long been associated with calmness and serenity, and research has shown that being in blue spaces can help us feel more relaxed and at peace. In this article, we will examine how blue spaces can provide us with a sense of well-being and improve our mood.

Why Is Blue So Special?

There are a few reasons why blue spaces can positively affect our mood and well-being. For one, the colour blue has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind. In fact, many people associate the colour blue with feelings of peace and tranquility. This is because blue is often associated with the sky and the ocean, which are both known for their calming effects.

One study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology found that people who spent time in a room with blue walls reported feeling more relaxed and less stressed than those who were in a room with white walls. The researchers also found that the blue room was more effective at lowering blood pressure and heart rate than the white room.

Provide Anxiety Relief

One of the reasons why blue spaces can improve our mood is that they can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Blue has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body and can help lower heart rate and blood pressure. This is why many hospitals and healthcare facilities use blue as a calming colour in their design. So being around blue spaces can help reduce stress and anxiety and make us feel more relaxed and at peace.

A Greater Focus and Concentration

Blue spaces can also improve our mood by enabling us to focus and concentrate. The colour blue has been shown to affect our cognitive abilities positively and can help improve our focus and concentration. This is why many schools and offices use blue in their design, as it can help improve productivity and focus. In addition, being around blue spaces can help improve our cognitive abilities, making us feel more alert and focused.

Benefits Beyond Mental Health

In addition to the psychological benefits of blue spaces, they can also have physical health benefits. For example, being around blue spaces can help to improve our immune system, as the colour blue has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. This means it can help kill bacteria and other germs that can cause illness. So being around blue spaces helps protect our health and keep us feeling our best.

"Blue is the only color which maintains its own character in all its tones ... it will always stay blue." - Raoul Dufy

Incorporating More Blue Spaces

Spend More Time Outside

One way to incorporate more blue spaces into our lives is to spend more time outdoors. The sky and the ocean are two examples of naturally occurring blue spaces that can provide us with many of the benefits discussed above. 

More Beach or Lake Visits

Visit the beach or a lake more often. One of the easiest ways to incorporate more blue spaces into our lives is to visit bodies of water regularly. The sound of waves crashing against the shore or a gentle stream can have a calming effect on our minds and help reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, the fresh air and sunlight can boost our mood and overall health.

Water Sports

Bring nature indoors. If you need easy access to a body of water, you can still incorporate blue spaces into your daily life by bringing nature indoors. This can be as simple as placing a fish tank in your home or office or adding a few plants to your space. The presence of water and greenery can help create a calming and peaceful atmosphere.

Closing Thoughts

As a corporate wellness company, we are always looking for ways to improve our client's employees' mental and physical well-being. One strategy that we have found to be particularly effective is the incorporation of blue spaces into the work environment.

Studies have shown that blue hues can have a calming and soothing effect on people, reducing stress and improving overall feelings of well-being. This can be especially beneficial in a corporate setting, where employees are often pressured to meet deadlines and perform at their best. Have you tried incorporating blue into your workplace? We would like to hear about your experience if you have one.