siliconindia | | DECEMBER 20258Imagine a 23-year-old software engineer hired with fanfare at a gleaming tech startup. Six months later, they ghost the team chat, delete their badge photo, and vanish into the gig-economy ether.Their exit email sent at 2:14 a.m. reads simply, `This isn't the plot twist I signed up for'. This isn't an exception, it's the opening scene of a workplace revolution scripted by an entire generation.Gen Z, is quitting faster than any cohort in recorded labor history. Data shows that over 60% of them have left a job within the first year, and their median tenure is less than a year. But beneath the eye-rolling memes about `quiet quitting' lies a seismic recalibration of what work must deliver to earn a human life. These are not tantrums, they are exit interviews for an obsolete social contract.Marut Bhardwaj, Head of Potential Project, India - a global consulting & Professional, says "Employee wellbeing covers more than just physical health. Having a sense of purpose, emotional well-being, financial security, and strong, supportive relationships are all important aspects of a holistically healthy lifestyle".Here are ten non-negotiable truths distilled from thousands of real resignations, leaked chats, and anonymized employee reviews.1. Purpose is the new 401(k)More than three-quarters of Gen Z workers say they would accept a pay cut for `meaningful impact'. They grew up watching climate collapse on social media and student debt eclipse trillions, a job that merely pays rent feels like a participation trophy.When the mission statement is just recycled corporate jargon, they walk. One employee in sustainability left after discovering the company's eco-friendly products were mostly greenwashing. They now consult for ethical organizations, earning less but sleeping eight hours.2. Mental health is non-optional infrastructureGen Z is more than twice as likely to cite burnout as a reason for quitting compared to older generations. They treat therapy like others once treated dental plans. Companies that brag about `unlimited PTO' while scheduling late-night meetings are hemorrhaging talent.A viral post detailed an employee's 72-hour final week 14 virtual meetings, 3 all-nighters, zero HR check-ins. They left for a four-day-week remote agency and gained their peace of mind back.3. Flexibility is the new corner officeThe majority of Gen Z would reject a job without hybrid or remote options. They watched their parents commute for hours just to sit under fluorescent lights for culture.Post-pandemic, they know collaboration tools work just as well from anywhere. Remote employees report higher productivity and lower intent to leave. EDITORIAL EXCLUSIVEM R Yuvatha, Senior Correspondent, siliconindiaTOP 10 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM GEN Z'S EARLY JOB EXITS
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