^Gen Z, also known as the iGeneration or post-Millennials, is the generation born between 1997 and 2012. This generation is known for its tech-savviness, entrepreneurial spirit, and willingness to challenge the status quo. 

Traditionally, 90% of the workforce worked 9 to 5 days, with a set lunch break in between. While the 9 to 5 work model was the norm in the past, today's workers are increasingly looking for flexible and remote work opportunities, particularly from Gen Z.

A number of factors, including the increasing availability of remote work opportunities, the desire for work-life balance, and the changing attitudes of young people towards work and success, drive this trend. This article explores how Gen Z breaks free from the 9 to 5.

Too Much Comfort From Remote Work?

One of the main reasons why Gen Z is breaking free of the 9 to 5 is the increasing availability of remote work opportunities. With the rise of the gig economy and the emergence of online platforms that connect workers with employers, it has become easier than ever for people to find work that can be done from anywhere in the world. This has given young people the flexibility to create their own schedules and work on their own terms rather than being tied down to a traditional office job.

The Perfect Work-Life Balance

Another factor that is driving this trend is the desire for work-life balance. Many young people, particularly Gen Z, value experiences and personal growth over material possessions and financial success. They are willing to trade a high-paying job with long hours for one that allows them to have more time for hobbies, travel, and other activities that enrich their lives. 

This is reflected in the growing popularity of flexible work arrangements, such as part-time and freelance work, which give workers the ability to choose their own schedules and work on their own terms.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt

Success Is Being Redefined.

In addition to the availability of remote work opportunities and the desire for work-life balance, the changing attitudes of young people towards work and success are also contributing to the trend of breaking free from the 9 to 5. Many young people today view work as a means to an end rather than an end in itself. 

They are less likely to be motivated by traditional markers of success, such as climbing the corporate ladder or accumulating wealth, and more likely to prioritise fulfilment and personal growth. As a result, they are more willing to take risks and pursue unconventional career paths that allow them to follow their passions and interests.

Change Is Afoot Thanks to Technology.

One of the main reasons for this shift is the increasing availability of technology that makes remote work possible. With the rise of the internet and the widespread use of smartphones and laptops, it is now easier than ever for workers to stay connected and productive from anywhere in the world. This has opened up new opportunities for Gen Z workers who are looking to break free from the constraints of the 9 to 5 work model.

Rise of the Gig Economy

The rise of the gig economy has also contributed to the shift away from the 9 to 5 work model. The gig economy refers to the growing trend of workers taking on short-term, contract-based work rather than traditional full-time employment. This allows workers to have more control over their schedules and the type of work they do, which can be particularly appealing to Gen Z workers who value flexibility and autonomy.

Closing Thoughts

This generation is driven by a desire for autonomy and a need for work-life balance, and they are using technology to create their own opportunities and forge their own paths. As a result, the concept of the 9 to 5 workday is becoming increasingly obsolete, and companies will need to adapt to this changing landscape in order to attract and retain top talent from this generation.

^Women’s Day in corporate spaces has long been reduced to flowers, speeches, and token acknowledgments. But what if companies used this day as an opportunity to genuinely invest in women’s well-being?

The modern workplace demands more than recognition—it requires actionable change that helps women destress, reflect, and reconnect with themselves. These five experiences are designed to do just that.

Each activity is backed by science, psychology, and real human impact—ensuring that International Women’s Day isn’t just another date on the calendar but a meaningful investment in workplace well-being.

1. Chocolate Meditation: A Sensory Experience for the Stressed-Out Mind

Stress isn’t just a fleeting feeling—it’s a biological response that disrupts focus, weakens immunity, and accelerates burnout. Women in corporate settings often bear the weight of high performance, emotional labor, and societal expectations, making stress management a critical necessity.

The Science Behind It

Chocolate meditation is a multi-sensory mindfulness exercise that slows down the nervous system, triggers the brain’s pleasure centers, and enhances cognitive focus. Studies show that mindful eating can improve digestion, reduce emotional eating, and enhance overall mental clarity.

How It Works

1. Participants sit in a quiet setting with a piece of rich, dark chocolate.
2. They are guided to observe the texture, scent, and feel before even tasting it.
3. Each bite is taken deliberately slow, focusing on flavors, sensations, and emotions.
4. Deep breathing and mindfulness techniques help them detach from stress and reconnect with the present.

The Impact

• Reduces cortisol levels (stress hormone)
• Improves mindful awareness and focus
• Creates a sense of relaxation and control over emotions

Why Companies Should Do It
A simple yet transformative stress-management tool that employees can continue using beyond Women’s Day. Unlike traditional meditation, it is engaging, accessible to everyone, and deeply restorative.

2. Sweet Impressions: Chocolate Painting & Gifting as a Creative Therapy

Creativity is often neglected in corporate spaces, yet it plays a vital role in mental well-being, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Women, especially, often don’t get time to express themselves artistically, making creative engagement a crucial part of holistic wellness.

The Science Behind It

Psychologists have found that art-based activities reduce anxiety, improve emotional intelligence, and increase serotonin production—the neurotransmitter responsible for happiness. Combining this with chocolate—a known mood booster—intensifies the benefits.

How It Works

1. Each participant is given a canvas of white chocolate and an array of edible colors.
2. They are guided to paint freely, translating emotions into art.
3. The final piece is then gifted to themselves or a colleague, reinforcing the power of meaningful gestures.

The Impact

• Boosts serotonin levels and promotes mental relaxation
• Encourages self-expression in a non-verbal, safe way
• Builds emotional connections between participants

Why Companies Should Do It
This activity is an unconventional, interactive, and deeply engaging experience that encourages collaboration, creative thinking, and emotional bonding—all crucial for a positive workplace culture.

3. Nurturing the Inner Goddess: A Self-Care and Empowerment Journey

Women spend their lives prioritizing work, family, and responsibilities, often putting their own well-being last. Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Yet, in a workplace setting, it is rarely encouraged.

The Science Behind It

Studies show that structured self-reflection and self-care practices increase productivity, reduce burnout, and enhance decision-making skills. When women take time to check in with themselves, recognize their worth, and set personal boundaries, they perform better both personally and professionally.

How It Works

1. The session begins with guided self-reflection exercises where women identify personal strengths, goals, and areas of growth.
2. They engage in empowerment exercises, including affirmations, visualization, and mindful journaling.
3. Participants craft a self-care action plan that aligns with their emotional and professional aspirations.

The Impact

• Strengthens self-awareness and confidence
• Reinforces the importance of emotional well-being
• Equips women with practical self-care strategies

Why Companies Should Do It
This isn’t just another motivational session—it’s a deeply introspective experience that equips women with lifelong tools for self-care and resilience.

4. Resilience Canvas: Painting Personal Stories of Strength

Women’s resilience is often assumed, expected, and overlooked. Every woman carries a story of struggles, victories, and perseverance, but these narratives often remain unheard.

The Science Behind It

Art therapy has been widely studied for its powerful impact on emotional healing. Expressing challenges and victories through colors and visuals bypasses the limiting effects of language, allowing deeper emotional processing.

How It Works

1. Each woman is given a blank canvas and paint.
2. They are guided to reflect on a personal challenge they’ve overcome and express it visually.
3. Each painting becomes part of a collective resilience wall, representing the shared strength of women in the workplace.

The Impact

• Encourages emotional release and self-expression
• Strengthens a sense of community and shared resilience
• Provides a lasting visual representation of strength

Why Companies Should Do It
Beyond team-building, this is a cathartic experience that humanizes workplace conversations and celebrates real stories of resilience.

5. The Invisible Load: Unpacking the Mental and Emotional Burdens of Women

Women disproportionately take on invisible labor—both at work and at home. From emotional caregiving to multitasking, expectation management, and self-doubt, these unseen responsibilities add tremendous pressure without acknowledgment.

The Science Behind It

Research shows that unrecognized emotional labor contributes to stress, exhaustion, and decreased job satisfaction. Having open conversations about these burdens validates experiences and creates systemic awareness.

How It Works

1. A facilitated discussion where women share experiences, challenges, and coping strategies.
2. Psychological insights on invisible labor and practical work-life balance techniques.
3. Interactive role-reversal exercises that help teams understand these unseen burdens.

The Impact

• Creates awareness around mental load
• Encourages honest conversations about workplace dynamics
• Leads to more supportive, inclusive policies

Why Companies Should Do It
This session isn’t about venting—it’s about acknowledgment, support, and actionable change. Companies that actively address the hidden struggles of women foster healthier, more sustainable work environments.

Beyond Celebration, Toward Real Change

These five activities go beyond feel-good moments—they help women reset, recharge, and reconnect with themselves in ways that have a lasting impact on their well-being and productivity.

Companies that prioritize meaningful engagement don’t just show appreciation—they build healthier, happier, and more resilient teams.

This year, don’t just acknowledge the women in your workforce—invest in them.

Let’s create a Women’s Day experience that sparks real change. Reach out today to bring these transformative activities to your workplace.