Gen Zs are embracing ‘micro-retirements’

Gone are the days of waiting till old age to retire. An increasing number of Gen Z workers are opting for “micro-retirements,” a trending lifestyle where they step away from work for two weeks every 12 to 18 months.

Micro-retirements aren’t like regular paid time off. It is often unpaid and may involve quitting a job or stepping back from a business.

Those who take them say they can rest, travel, or reset. The trend is growing as a way to avoid burnout and boost mental health. Some business owners say these breaks help them recharge without hurting their careers.

However, experts warn that such frequent breaks could affect people’s careers and long-term financial goals if not planned properly.

It could make job hunting harder, reduce retirement savings, and raise red flags with employers.

Recommendations to avoid such situations include saving money ahead of time, understanding job benefits, and thinking long-term about career and finances.

For some people, the trade-off is worth it: a better life balance now, even if it means a smaller retirement fund later. According to a Side Hustles survey, 10% of workers are considering micro-retirement, and 75% believe employers should offer it as a formal policy.