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Work as the meaning of life? That was once the case. A recent study shows that more and more people—especially the younger generation—are prioritizing enjoyment of life and leisure time over total self-fulfillment in their jobs.
Your job as a meaningful factor in your life. Sounds a bit old-fashioned, doesn't it?
If you see your job as much more than just a meaningful aspect of your life, you are in line with the results of a new study by the Foundation for Future Studies.
The study results clearly show how the understanding of a successful life has changed over the last 20 years. While in 2006 more than half of those surveyed said that work should primarily give meaning and create a purpose in life, only 33% agree with this today. During the same period, the proportion of respondents who said they wanted to enjoy their lives and not work harder than necessary rose from 14% to 22%.
This perspective is particularly pronounced among young adults between the ages of 18 and 24, with just under a third of respondents stating that they prioritize enjoying life. At the same time, however, 31% in this age group also say that they want to do something meaningful and enjoyable in their work. This shows a clear trend towards a lifestyle and career that focuses equally on meaning and enjoyment, career and leisure.
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This text first appeared as an editorial in the weekly politjobs newsletter. If you would like to receive this newsletter with the latest jobs in politics directly by email every Wednesday, you can subscribe to it here.