The conventional roster of life milestones is under review. Having kids in your 30s is no longer a given, if kids are part of the plan at all. Career progression is non-linear. Older Adults are finding new forms of independence. And Gen Z are embracing a more fluid definition of home.

The self-made mythos is as powerful as ever, despite societal upheaval testing its limits. Even mundane pastimes have been monetised as people cash in on massive audiences and leave no niche unexplored. Selling out is no longer a source of embarrassment, it’s just what makes the world go round.

As young Chinese people feel less secure about China’s harsh working and living conditions and COVID-19 policies, they are leaning into the Guochao movement as a route of finding state-funded employers. But as frustrations grow and economic instability mounts, where will Gen Zers seek release?