As Gen Z women enter adulthood and begin their careers, many are thinking about what their future lives will look like.
In a recent survey of 2,000 respondents by online writing platform EduBirdie, nearly half (47%) of Gen Z women said they want a happy marriage and job security. A further 23% say they want to be highly successful, independent and famous, even if it means staying single.
In fact, many people question what is actually possible when it comes to the age-old challenge of work-life balance. 25% of Gen Z women believe they have to choose between work and love, and cannot have both at the same time.
It’s not a new conundrum.
Trying to build a solid personal life and career “has been the biggest challenge for women throughout history,” says Wendy Walsh, a psychologist and relationship guru.
That’s especially true because inequality persists, with women still earning about 81 cents to every dollar earned by men, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many women may feel that the only way to get ahead is to focus solely on their career, Eduvardi noted.
Look for a spouse who supports your ambitions just as you support his.
wendy walsh
psychologist, relationship expert
“I think Gen Z women are buying into the adage more often that women can have it all, but they can’t have it all at the same time,” Walsh says, adding that some may simply feel they need to develop work skills and save money before considering other aspects of life.
For people who want to balance love and work, Walsh says it’s possible, especially with the right partner.
“Healthy relationships are interdependent,” she says. “Find a spouse who supports your ambitions as much as you support his.”
Psychologist Sabrina Romanoff suggests paying attention to certain green lights, such as consistent behavior, taking responsibility for your shortcomings, and making yourself feel calm and safe.
“I think the healthiest attitude is to think of a male partner as a partner, a confidant, a helper, rather than just a provider,” says Walsh. “Gen Z women are beginning to erase outdated gender roles and may be learning to welcome more helpful men into the household.”
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