ABSTRACT
Among the challenges posed by the pandemic is a growing labor shortage. A record-breaking number of Americans have quit their jobs since April 2021. This “Great Resignation” is largely led by members of Gen-Z and millennials (Gerber, 2021). Pundits have offered deficit-oriented explanations, such as a lack of resilience, loyalty, and commitment in younger generations. The problem with these speculations is that counter-evidence suggests young people are actually demonstrating increased life purpose and leadership in their communities and countries. A new UN strategy for addressing the pandemic notes young people are not actually giving up on working even as they leave their current jobs (United Nations, 2020). Rather, they are highly engaged in the global response (e.g., serving on the frontlines as health workers and advancing health and safety as researchers, activists, innovators, and communicators). This essay explores the motivations and life purpose of today’s young people during this crisis. Lessons learned may be useful for understanding young employees and creating a more dignified and socially just workplace and world.
