New Delhi: Low energy, irritability and distance from work when it comes to going to office, these symptoms are increasingly seen in today’s Gen Z. According to reports, mental fatigue to work is increasing so much in this generation that it is now being called ‘Gen Z burnout’. The question is, why do youth start feeling tired at the very beginning of their job?

Experts believe that this is not just laziness or the habit of avoiding work, but the result of changing work culture, increasing gap between expectations and resources. Let us understand what Gen Z burnout is, how it arises and what are its signs.

Why is the problem of burnout increasing in Gen Z?

Gen Z loves trendy, flexible and creative work. This is why they want to distance themselves from the traditional 9 to 5 job. But when this same generation tries to adapt to the traditional office setup, the pressure on them increases. The result is mental exhaustion even before the work begins.

What is burnout?

Burnout is a condition in which employee expectations and actual demands of the workplace do not match. This is persistent mental and physical fatigue, which affects focus, motivation and performance.

Major reasons behind burnout

1. Ambiguity of work, lack of clarity in responsibilities

2. Excessive workload, expectation of more output in less time

3. Lack of skills and resources, lack of training or support

4. Lack of experience, new employees being rushed into big responsibilities

Why is Gen Z more sensitive?

Research shows that Gen Z, women, and employees with less experience are more vulnerable to burnout. When the reality of the workplace doesn’t match the needs of employees, the problem becomes system-level rather than individual.

Three stages of burnout

1. Fatigue: Constant lack of energy

2. Cynicism: Distance and isolation from work.

3. Decline in self-confidence: Doubt on one’s abilities, zero performance

Impact on Gen Z after Covid

A large portion of Gen Z entered the workforce during or immediately after COVID-19. Remote work reduced informal office interactions, on-the-job learning and mentorship. This made it difficult for the youth to understand the work and adapt to it.

Common symptoms of Gen Z burnout

1. Tiredness before even starting work
2. Low energy and lack of focus
3. Fall of Motivation
4. Constant stress and frustration