Gen Z is not blindly chasing outdated standards of success – they are redefining what it means to succeed in their own unique and practical way. For them, success isn’t measured by a salary figure or a job title, but by living true to their identity and passions. They believe success is a journey, not a destination – it’s about the freedom to choose, the richness of experience, and personal liberty, free from society’s rigid definitions.
Facing reality: Obsolete formula for success
Previous generations often viewed success as a straight path: study hard, work diligently, climb the ladder, earn money, and gain status. However, Gen Z has grown up in a completely different world – one where those traditional concepts no longer fit. They’ve witnessed economic instability, constant crises, and a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
They understand that chasing a so-called “golden formula” is not only a waste of time but can come at a high cost – health, relationships, and inner peace. For Gen Z, success isn’t about following a well-worn path, but about carving out their own, where they feel truly free and fulfilled.
Success is freedom and being yourself
For Gen Z, success isn’t measured by salary or job titles – it’s measured by freedom. Freedom to do what they love, to choose their work and living environment. Success could be a freelance designer working from anywhere in the world, or a small café owner whose space reflects their personal style and brings value to the community.
They don’t feel the need to “climb” every rung of the social ladder to feel proud of themselves. Instead, they build bridges – connecting their core values with the world around them, creating new opportunities without having to sacrifice too much. It’s a journey that begins with self-confidence – and the courage to try, to fail, and to start again..
Learn, work and live – A non-standard journey
Gen Z doesn’t buy into the idea of “golden tickets” like a university degree or a traditional office job. They choose a path that’s more flexible and diverse – a path not confined by fixed hours or physical spaces. For them, learning and working are no longer separate pursuits. Many opt for online courses, vocational training, or even self-education through free resources available on the internet.
They understand that success is a blend of learning, creativity, and adaptability. A young person today might be a freelancer, run an online shop selling handmade products, and simultaneously contribute to a community project. What matters most is not just the pursuit of money, but the pursuit of new experiences and personal growth.
Embarking – Not enduring, but an option
Gen Z doesn’t blindly throw themselves into work just because they “have to”. They know they don’t always need to push themselves to the brink just to prove their worth. A good job, to them, isn’t something that makes them feel drained or full of regret each morning. Instead, they pursue opportunities they believe can positively transform their lives – and the lives of others – in meaningful ways.
Gen Z understands that commitment doesn’t mean enduring everything—it means choosing a path that aligns with who they are. They’re not afraid to quit a job or turn down an opportunity if the environment feels toxic or clashes with their values. They know that success isn’t a fixed destination, but a continuous journey of learning and growth.
Rewriting the formula for success – while not negating old values
Gen Z doesn’t reject traditional values – they simply see them through a different lens. Money and status still matter, but they’re not everything. They’re willing to work hard to create value, but never at the cost of sacrificing their entire identity just to fit into an outdated mold of success.
For Gen Z, success is a blend of personal ambition, the courage to experiment, and deep human values. They are redefining the formula for success not from abstract theories, but from real-life experiences and the vivid stories that come from their own lives.
Gen Z isn’t just redefining success – they’re creating a new way to achieve it, one that isn’t based on rigid standards or endless competition. Instead of viewing success as a destination, they see it as a continuous journey of innovation and adaptation, where each step is a discovery of self. True success, for them, isn’t about conquering the highest peaks – it’s about living authentically and fully every day.
Kina | Cameron Truong
