Gen Z Mocked for 'Micro-Retirement' Trend: Taking Time Off to Prioritize Mental Health

A new trend is sweeping through TikTok, as Gen Z and millennials pledge to take "micro-retirements" throughout their careers. This movement, which involves taking periodic breaks from work to focus on personal well-being, has been gaining momentum despite its critics, who argue that it is merely an extended holiday.

The idea of "micro-retirement" is to take time off work while still young, rather than deferring all leisure to the later years of life. Gen Z believes that this allows them to "make the most of youth" and "optimise [their] mental health."

TikTok/ @uri8tor

One TikTok user explained: "It's basically where, throughout your career, you time off instead of waiting [or] deferring [till] you're older to take all of your retirement."

These breaks can range from a few weeks to a year, with many using the time to travel or work on personal projects.

In a video, British creator Adama Lorna explained: "It's this idea that instead of waiting until you we're 60 or 70 to travel the world and try and indulge in these hobbies, you do them when you have your youth, energy and health - you dot them around your life."

Despite its popularity, the trend has raised some skepticism. One critic commented: "The American mind cannot comprehend long term leave so they invent micro retirement." Another pointed out: "Isn't this just going on holiday?"

The term "micro-retirement" was originally coined by entrepreneur Tim Ferris in his 2007 book The 4-Hour Workweek, although the reality of working a four-hour week remains elusive for most.

Anaïs Felt, a 31-year-old American creator, is one of the prominent figures embracing this trend. She took six months off from her corporate tech job, a decision that she describes as transformative.

"I have never felt better. I've never felt healthier, I've never felt more rested, it's been amazing and I highly recommend it," she said in a video. Despite taking time off, she maintains that potential employers did not seem concerned about her career break. "I will say I am interviewing with some of the top companies in tech right now and none of them seem to care."

Other young people have shared similar experiences. Morgan Sanner, 27, highlighted that Gen Z is more open to non-traditional work models, such as freelancing and contract work. "I think Gen Z is interested in less traditional models of employment, in general. For example, we’re far more likely to freelance or do contract work than previous generations," she said.

While the idea of taking time off work appeals to many, it isn't always feasible for everyone. Anaïs admitted that she had planned her break by saving a significant amount of money and paying off a large portion of her student loans. "I also am childfree. I come from a low-income background and am the first person in my family to go to college and do this...so it is possible with the right strategy, grit and resilience," she shared.

Other creators, such as Leona Marlene, spoke about their own "mini-retirement" experiences, noting how stepping away from the workforce has led to personal growth and better health. "This has been the best decision we ever could have made for ourselves," she enthused, reflecting on the time she spent away after being laid off from a job she disliked.

However, not everyone is convinced by the trend.

One commenter questioned how individuals could afford such extended breaks, while another remarked: "My parents won't be able to retire at 65. 70 is unlikely for most millennials. Most of us are just getting by - quitting and taking that much time off is so impractical especially for the majority of people."

Despite these challenges, many are hopeful that the trend will continue to grow in popularity. A recent survey revealed that 76% of young people aspire to become their own bosses, with 45% believing they can make a living through social media or by running businesses from their phones.

The rise of "micro-retirement" is part of a broader movement among younger generations who are prioritising mental health, personal fulfilment, and work-life balance over career longevity and progression.

Guy Thornton, founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, observed: "As the younger generations have begun to normalise a heavier focus on well-being and a good work-life balance, comes a new career trend."

While "micro-retirement" may not be realistic for everyone, it is evident that young people are reshaping how we think about work, leisure, and long-term career planning.