Sofi Torres-Kennedy took a teaching job in France to give herself some time before settling into a traditional corporate job in Chicago. However, she ended up loving the European lifestyle so much that she stayed for three years and now works in a chateau doing a variety of tasks. This trend is not unique to Torres-Kennedy, as more Gen Zers are also looking towards Europe as a model for the ideal work-life balance.
Many are eschewing the "hustle culture" and unattainable markers of success in the US, and instead are embracing the more relaxed European way of life, complete with extended holidays, long lunches, and a firm separation of work and personal life. This shift in mindset is leading some young Americans to adopt a more European approach to their careers and work decisions.
According to Davina Ramkissoon, a workplace well-being psychologist, and consultant based in Ireland, many North Americans are moving to Europe or the UK for work. The trend is driven by the better quality of life they experience in terms of working conditions in the EU. Lily Rakow, a former nine-to-fiver from Annapolis, Maryland, was one such individual. While experiencing burnout from her previous role, she began researching the European work style and was fascinated by the days and outdoor happy hours with colleagues.
Rakow eventually left her job to pursue her health-and-wellness brand, which allowed for the flexibility she craved. The experiences of young Americans shared on social media, featuring flexible schedules and work-life balance, have influenced Gen Z's workplace priorities. With increased awareness of workplace treatment and a desire for a better life, they are increasingly envious of other countries' workplace operations and are questioning why they cannot have them too.