'How do you manage 21 year olds?'

A frequently asked question - so I asked Lucy, our 21 year old daughter......

As a 21-year-old woman, I’ve observed that for many young people, workplace culture plays a pivotal role in how long we stay at a job. This is vastly different to years ago when people would stay loyal to a company regardless of the toll it took on their mental and physical health, often prioritising job security and long-term tenure over personal well-being or workplace satisfaction.

There’s a growing recognition among young people that productivity doesn’t have to come at the cost of personal health, and we’re unafraid to advocate for ourselves when the pressure becomes too much. Some might label this as ‘weak’ or ‘sensitive,’ but I see it as taking control of our lives and ensuring the loyalty and attitude we give to a company is reciprocated. I believe it’s really important for a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that success and self-care can coexist.

A lot of young people are looking for workplaces that actually care about their employees—places with mental health support, open communication, understanding leaders, and a welcoming community. These factors help create a sustainable team of people who are motivated to stay loyal and work hard for a company. When we prioritise our needs, we’re showing up as happier, more engaged, and more productive employees.

As people and societies evolve, work places should too.

If companies want to attract and keep young talent, they need to create an environment where people feel respected, supported, and genuinely valued. Where the office environment is moving simultaneously with the current cultural shifts.

I do believe traditions and values are very important, but these elements can thrive together when given the opportunity.

At the end of the day, this is about building a work culture that makes sense for the world we live in today—one where growth and well-being are equally prioritised. Not only for young people, but everyone involved. Because let’s be real—no one wants to go home after work still carrying the same stress they felt in the office.