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.

Against a backdrop of uncertainty, people are searching for new sources of control and stability. Where science and ancient wisdom have been conventionally pitted against one another, many are moving towards an integrated approach to authority that draws from the best of both worlds.

Gen Zers are increasingly redefining workplaces, and a study has shown that they’re looking to control their careers by starting their own businesses. The findings highlight how this cohort is adapting to new career contexts, working for themselves, and taking life into their own hands.

As they seek an insurance policy against the precarious economy and job market, Americans are having to consider monetizing their hobbies – whether they like it or not. In a time of high inflation and economic pessimism, people are being forced to consider new avenues of income.

With rapid technological advancement in AI and automation, it’s clear that career paths are not going to be as linear as they used to be. Pressured by the cost of living crisis, people are looking into upskilling, side hustles, and rethinking how their education will aid them in future careers, while employers are looking for multifaceted, ‘Swiss army knife’ employees who can adapt to rapidly changing work environments.

Gen Zers have been labeled lazy by the corporate world because their ambition looks different from their predecessors in the workplace. Further inspection of their work ethic shows that it extends beyond their nine-to-five, with side hustles challenging the anti-ambition accusation.