Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

Work-related alienation, automation concerns, and doubts about the gig economy have all contributed to the rapid growth of the r/Antiwork subreddit, particularly among young employees. The community’s impact on the discourse around work highlights how calls for labor reform can no longer be ignored.

As workers and their employers clash over return-to-office mandates, questions remain about how workers manage their work-life balance in this new environment. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Brad Aeon, a time management researcher, about the future of productivity in and outside the workplace.

In 2024, Gen Zers are set to make up a larger proportion of the workforce than Boomers. In prioritizing work-life balance, upskilling, and flexibility, how will these young employees shape the future of work? Canvas8 spoke to seven young American employees to find out what they value in their jobs.

‘Lazy girl’ jobs and ‘quiet quitting’ are slowly replacing ‘girl boss’ and ‘rise and grind’ as more Gen Zers enter the workplace and offices. This shift signals how a new generation of workers is rejecting hustle culture and looking for meaningful work that allows them to lead fuller lives.