What is 'career minimalism' and what are the potential rewards and risks?
The concept of 'career minimalism' is gaining traction on social media, encouraging people to prioritize mental health and work-life balance over traditional career advancement. The trend reflects a shift in how younger generations define success and identity.
Why it matters
It highlights a cultural shift in labor values and the impact of social media on professional expectations.
Grace McClelland says she found herself feeling burnt out and "just not loving life". ( Supplied: Grace McClelland )
Link copied Share Share article "My full-time job gives me a stable income. It's very low-stress. I have a good working environment," Grace McClelland says.
The 34-year-old works as a receptionist and office manager and does online content creating "on the side", on Gadigal land in Sydney.
You may have come across terms like "career minimalism", "job minimalism", "decentring work" and "soft life" in your social media algorithm.
These terms are often used to describe prioritising work-life balance or factors such as stability, identity, mental health and happiness above career progression or ambition.
"I wasn't aware of it until I sort of started posting about it," Grace says.
Grace says she's had a "non-linear career history".
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