Post is for GenX. We're one of the last generations who bought into this “capitalism is good have kids breed more cattle” only to wake up and realize the truth. I realize many of us GenX'ers are in a bad financial place, I respect and empathize, my ask isn't of you.
I found out last night that 2 of my GenZ friends have parents that are forcing them to start working within a few days of graduating college even though the parents are financially stable. They're not charging the kids rent/food/utilities, its a fear of them becoming slackers. Those kids are on the verge of tears due to pure exhaustion and there's no need for that.
- They're not slackers. Let them slack (if you don't need help paying bills)! They've just spent 17+ years in school busting their ass, most likely on stupid/mindless drone homework with questionable real world value. They need more than a few days of rest because once they get on this stupid treadmill they won't get off for actual decades.
- Their idea of “work” may not be your idea of “work”. THAT IS OKAY IT'S THEIR LIFE! For example my kid is graduating with a degree in biology and a minor in physiology. She's contemplating med school b/c she wants to heal people but that's a giant commitment. She realized her classes have prepped her well to be a (not sure of right word) wellness instructor. Get certified in yoga, learn how acupuncture can help, etc. We have a family friend who's a masseuse, they could both open up a small studio. That's likely not her forever path, maybe just a year or two. So. Freaking. What. If this makes her happy, makes her feel like she can leverage her degree while doing what she likes, great!
I think too many GenX'ers have forgotten the words of John Lennon:
- “When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down ‘happy.’ They told me I didn’t understand the assignment, and I told them they didn’t understand life.”