Work Hard, Rest Smart: Why Generations Clash at Work

Are younger generations too focused on fun? Or did they just learn from watching older generations burn out?
Growing up, they saw hustle glorified at the expense of health. So they chose something different—intuition, flexibility, and boundaries. But sometimes, that intuition overlooks the depth that experience brings.
On the flip side, older generations (myself included) may cling too tightly to “the way it’s always been done.” Looking back, we could’ve used more balance.
I don’t think one side is right. Great teams need a mix—people who know when to grind, and when to pause.
When I hire, I look for exactly that: curiosity, empathy, and the instinct to balance momentum with rest. That’s the real skill.