Are Millennials Lazy?

July 28, 2019 Elsa Orlandini

Some people say Millennials are lazy, what do you think?

Millennials do not have the best reputation, as they tend to be labeled as lazy, entitled, self-centered, and non-conforming. They tend to challenge what the workplace should be like and tend to go against traditional workplace rules. Many view them as unwilling to work and prefer to focus their time on hobbies and an easygoing lifestyle. Additionally, many blame technology for their behaviors, stating they depend on their phones and other electronics and no longer know how to communicate and be productive in various settings. However, there is now a push to view the behaviors of millennials differently. Rather than viewing them as lazy, many are describing them as a highly successful group that sometimes have too many options.

What seems to hold millennials back?

In today’s world, there are so many different career options, less expectations to marry and have a family, and increased flexibility. Generations before millennials had clear expectations laid out for them to follow. Now, the amount of options is actually holding many back due to being overwhelmed and fears of failing. Questions that often cause many to become overwhelmed and potentially give up include:

What if I don’t succeed?
Will I be able to make money?
What if I don’t accomplish anything meaningful?
What if I make the wrong decision?

According to research, when individual’s are faced with too many options, they become overwhelmed which increases the likelihood that they will give up or make an impulsive decision that they will eventually regret.

How do some millennials get past the lazy reputation and become successful?

The most successful millennials tend to accept the unknown without allowing it to control their lives by gaining more self-awareness and setting realistic goals. By setting realistic short-term and long-term goals, they are able to develop a plan. In developing a plan, it is important to be aware that things change whether we like that or not. Being able to accept changes and finding satisfaction in new plans helps individuals become more adaptable and resilient. Gaining a I have to deal with this attitude helps many overcome stressors or roadblocks that come up, ultimately helping us feel more accomplished and courageous in the end.

If you find yourself becoming extremely indecisive and pressured to accomplish endless goals, meeting with a qualified individual can help you develop stress management and goal setting skills. It may be helpful to discuss positive and negative aspects of your current situation in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Licensed psychologists at the Miami Psychology Group are currently accepting patients in the Miami and Miami Beach area.