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Gen Z turns to portfolio careers, with most running side hustles
A Guardian Business analysis says 57% of Gen Z report having a side hustle, reflecting a shift away from long-term stability goals.
The Guardian Business argues that Gen Z is increasingly focused on how they earn money day to day, as traditional milestones like stable employment and homeownership feel out of reach. The outlet links this shift to what it calls “production nihilism,” where young people grow less engaged with the kinds of work that once led to durable income and long-term plans.
The piece says many young adults are moving toward “portfolio careers” and other income streams, including training AI tools, running online content ventures, and subscriptions-based models such as OnlyFans. It also points to the rise of “polyworking,” where people build multiple revenue sources through platforms and creator-focused businesses.
According to the article, more than half of Americans say portfolio careers are more desirable than traditional careers for the future workforce, and 57% of Gen Z report having a side hustle. The analysis adds that these day jobs increasingly function as “financial anchors,” covering expenses while side earnings offer quicker payoffs such as cash, flexibility, and autonomy.