Lost in the Maze: Why the Youth are Struggling to find their path in 2024 Britain

Navigating the British fiscal landscape is no easy feat for today's 16-24-year-olds. They face a myriad of challenges including societal division, an economic recession, education dilemmas, a housing crisis, and limited job availability. Add to that the often overwhelming online job search experience and pressures from family members clinging to old-money stigmas, and it becomes clear that this generation is contending with a complex web of issues as they strive to carve out their identities and build their futures.

At 23, my personal search for deeper meaning has also come with its challenges; over the past month, I have faced scrutiny and bucket loads uncertainty around my direction life, to add to monetary stress. I have navigated a labyrinth of search engines, interviews, and spent countless hours on LinkedIn, with the amount of applications reaching into the thousands.

Yet, despite my family's expectations and urgency, I have still paid my way and held out for a role that genuinely aligns with my aspirations and values as an employee; on top of this, I have chosen to undertake a Master's degree to nurture my personal interests. I hope I can put some things into perspective for at least one other person who feels lost in the maze in a time of poor mental health in a world so full of opportunity.

The Ever-Changing University Conundrum

Our youth is often dictated by parents and guardians who believe they 'know best,' guiding us along a so-called 'right path.' A recent Caterer survey revealed that parents are major influencers on career choices for 18-24 year olds, with many feeling pressured to meet certain standards. [1] However, with more school leavers pursuing higher education than previous generations, is this the best way to shape someone's future?

Notably, only 71% of UK graduates work in jobs related to their field of study . This indicates that many pursue academia without intending to use their degrees and suggests we should carefully consider our choices before investing time and money. [2] Success should be personal, not defined by others.

Moreover, the working class often distorts the perception that university is a prerequisite for success. However, the job market is highly competitive, with portfolio careers, experience, and an influx of graduates creating a gap between academic teachings and real-world job models. If your course doesn't align with your aspirations and you switch industries, you may feel displaced or like a failure. Alternatives like entrepreneurship, networking, and integrating personal ventures with work can also lead to success and fulfilment. [3]

My advice to anyone who is feeling the pressure from our elders is... don't take advice. If a qualification is necessary for your goals, then pursue it. Otherwise, education should support your desired lifestyle. If it doesn't, invest your time in something that brings you happiness rather than just a prestigious white-collar title.

Alternatives to the 'Nuclear' Lifestyle

1) Hybrid Working and a Work-Life Balance

The COVID-19 pandemic dawned an unprecedented time for our infrastructure as the public were left on furlough pay, but millions continued to work from their laptops at home. Since then, hybrid working has emerged as a game-changer in the modern workplace, offering a blend of remote and in-office experience. This model is especially appealing to younger professionals who value flexibility just as much as their career; it is the perfect solution for a high morale in the workplace.

Despite your boss' preconceptions of hybrid working being unproductive, statistically, it does work. Research consistently shows that hybrid working can lead to increased productivity. A survey conducted by the CIPD found that over 41% of employers reported heightened output from their workers with these arrangements. [4] Additionally, the Office of National Statistics highlighted that nearly 24% of UK workers were engaging in a hybrid setting by 2022, showing the impact from the pandemic bought the burden of work back in the service of the people slightly. [5]

"Train people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough so they don't want to"- Richard Branson.

The most significant benefit of remote working is the improvements to your work-life balance. Again, according to ONS data, 78% of workers reported an improvement to their mental health. [5] This shift towards a more fulfilled life for someone who can blur the lines between family and work enables a hedonistic approach from an employers perspective, creating an appealing environment where employees feel valued and understood.

2) Portfolio Instagram Perceptions

Social media platforms heavily influence people's career aspirations by showcasing idealized wealth and achievement, which can foster imposter syndrome among impressionable youth. Research by Nabi and Preston (2017) shows that while social media often impacts self-esteem, it can also motivate young adults to pursue lucrative ventures instead of joining the rat race. [6]

To combat the depression caused by excessive screen time and unhealthy attachments to social media, it is crucial to use these platforms less passively and more purposefully. Social media can be a valuable tool for research and marketing, rather than a source of mind-numbing hours of wasted time.

Conclusions

To conclude, wherever you find yourself in life, make choices to align with your world to light the way; selfishness has some negative connotations but in the end everybody lives towards their prerogatives. In the event that you have taken steps you regret, do not be disheartened. Welcome this as a lesson for change.

For example, I have honed my research and critical thinking skills even though it was never my dream to head to University to study history. This gave me my enlightenment moment, and now I know where I want to be. Remember, we all have a purpose, whether it's family, career, money, or for our names to echo through the ages. Pursue what matters to you and don't be afraid to deviate from conventional expectations to achieve happiness and success.