In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, achieving a work-life balance has become increasingly challenging. This is especially true for Gen Z employees.
But first… Jodie Foster recently spoke to The Guardian about what her life is like behind the scenes as a mother.
Foster has two sons, Kit and Charles, who are in their 20s, whom she had with her ex-partner, film producer Cydney Bernard.
The actress and Bernard split up in 2008 and for the last 10 years, she has been married to photographer Alexandra Hedison.
Foster admits that one of the problems her children encountered early on was how to be male.
“My two don’t like sports,” she told The Guardian.
“They like to watch movies and sit at home, and they’re really into their female friends,” she continued.
Foster went on to say that her two sons are feminists, likely because of their upbringing surrounded by women.
“They’re super feminist. And there was a moment with my older one when he was in high school, when, because he was raised by two women – three women – it was like he was trying to figure out what it was to be a boy,” she explained.
“And he watched television and came to the conclusion, oh, I just need to be an a**hole. I understand,” she said of the portrayal of men on TV.
“I need to be shi**y to women, and act like I’m a f***er.”
“And I was like, no! That’s not what it is to be a man,” Jodie continued. “That’s what our culture has been selling you for all this time.”
Foster says that phase in her son’s life went on for about six months.
As for whether or not she let that phase in his life play out…she didn’t have a straight answer.
“Yes, and no. I was like, you won’t be talking to me like that.” Foster said as she burst into laughter.
But, despite raising two Gen Z sons, Foster also had some choice words about the generation during her interview.
Jodie’s problem…
The actress talked about a very common gripe many people in her generation have with Gen Z: their supposed unwillingness to work.
“They’re really annoying, especially in the workplace,” she said of people born between 1997 and 2012.
She went on to talk about her experience working with Gen Z, insisting they only work when they feel like it.
“They’re like, ‘Nah, I’m not feeling it today, I’m gonna come in at 10.30am,'” Foster said.
“Or, like, in emails, I’ll tell them this is all grammatically incorrect, did you not check your spelling? And they’re like, ‘Why would I do that, isn’t that kind of limiting?’” she continued.
Just last month, Foster spoke with Past Lives star Greta Lee for Interview magazine, where she opened up about her own struggles with age.
Jodie spoke about struggling in her 50s and how she’s feeling now at 61.
“I think it’s an age thing, because I felt these huge shifts the day I turned 30 and the day I turned 60,” she admitted.
Now, at 61, she’s feeling even better than she did throughout the last decade.
“And 60 was the best shift of all, because I was struggling in my 50s,” she revealed.
After becoming famous as a child star, Foster recalled wondering whether she would “do anything meaningful again” in her 50s.
She also described “that awkward phase where everybody who’s in their late 40s or 50s is very busy getting all plumped and shooting s*** into their face.”
“I didn’t want that life,” she said, “but I also knew that I couldn’t compete with my old self. So my 50s were tough.”
But, the actress went on to say that “something happened when I turned 60.”
“I was like, ‘I figured it out. This is good,'” Foster said. “There was something about going back to the work with a different attitude, I think.”
“…About really enjoying supporting other people and saying to myself, ‘This is not my time. I had my time,” she continued.
Now, she wants to pass it to the next generation
Foster concluded, “This is their time, and I get to participate in it by giving them whatever wisdom I have.'”
In a viral video that has garnered over 32.1 million views, a Gen Z employee expressed their frustration after being criticized for missing an early morning meeting to attend a workout class.
The incident sparked a heated debate, with older workers expressing outrage and questioning the younger generation’s commitment to their jobs.
While some argued that personal commitments should not interfere with work responsibilities, others defended the employee’s right to prioritize their personal well-being.
This incident brings to the forefront the generational differences and evolving expectations in the workplace.
The Changing Landscape of Work
Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, grew up in a world shaped by technology, social media, and instant gratification.
They have witnessed the impact of workaholic culture on previous generations and are determined to avoid falling into the same trap. For them, work is not the sole defining aspect of life.
They strive for a healthy work-life balance that allows them to pursue personal interests and prioritize their well-being.
The Importance of Work-Life Balance
Contrary to the traditional belief that success is solely measured by career achievements, Gen Z employees value a holistic approach to life.
They understand that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for their overall well-being and productivity. Exercise, in particular, is viewed as an essential component of self-care and stress management.
Gen Z’s Perspective on Work
Gen Z employees are not willing to sacrifice their personal lives for the sake of work.
They prioritize flexibility, autonomy, and meaningful experiences in their careers. They are more likely to choose employers who value work-life balance and provide opportunities for personal growth.
While some may argue that missing a meeting for a workout class signifies a lack of commitment, it is essential to recognize that Gen Z employees are seeking a balance that allows them to thrive both personally and professionally.
In the case of the Gen Z employee who missed the 8AM meeting, it is essential to consider the potential impact on their mental well-being if they were forced to attend despite their personal commitments.
By allowing employees to prioritize their mental health, employers can create a more supportive and inclusive work environment.
The Role of Employers
To attract and retain Gen Z employees, employers must adapt to their expectations and needs.
This includes offering flexible work arrangements, promoting work-life balance, and providing opportunities for personal development. By embracing these changes, employers can tap into the unique talents and perspectives that Gen Z brings to the table.
Finding Common Ground
While it is crucial to address the differing perspectives on work-life balance, it is equally important to find common ground and foster understanding between generations.
Open and honest communication can help bridge the gap and create a work environment that accommodates the needs of all employees.
As Gen Z continues to enter the workforce, it is clear that the traditional notion of work is evolving. Employers need to adapt their policies and practices to accommodate the changing expectations of the younger generation.