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Independent Singapore
16-05-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
AI is Gen Z's new office buddy, therapist — and sometimes ‘lover'
Whether one is writing a resignation letter or navigating one's love life, artificial intelligence has become an astoundingly close ally in Gen Z's day-to-day life. As a substitute for friends or colleagues, many young people today seek tools like ChatGPT for guidance, creativity lifts, or even emotional care. But while the technology pledges expertise and novelty, it elevates grave questions about trust, job security, and extreme dependency. AI: Gen Z's preferred partner According to a blog post published by EduBirdie , inside offices, AI isn't just well accepted, it's greeted with welcoming arms. More than 60% of Gen Zers have relied on it to help them deal with work-related responsibilities, often depending on it to craft emails, respond to messages, and even negotiate compensation. For others, AI has become their 'quick fix' when they need a boost to get productive and efficient, simultaneously relieving them of routine tasks and helping them hone their job performance and increase output. Yet, the line between expediency and overdependence is blurred. Notwithstanding the benefits, 21% of users have unwittingly shared delicate company data with AI tools. Still, many young employees say they could go on splendidly without AI, as 61% assert that a workplace ban on AI tools wouldn't damage their output or job performance. Career anxiety in the age of automation Although AI at present functions as a convenient and accessible subordinate, its imminent potential has left many Gen Zers anxious. More than 50% of employees are afraid of losing their jobs to computerisation within the next ten years. With systems already outdoing humans in specific artistic tasks, 40% of young professionals are contemplating changing careers just to stay ahead of the tech curve. Remarkably, management positions may be the last to go; only 9% of Gen Zers would want their superiors to be replaced by an AI. Yet even in management, AI is viewed by many as more deferential, open-minded, and impartial, and even more 'compassionate' than actual human beings. And if they're ever out of work, 38% of Gen Zers say they'd be confident that AI can help them find another job. AI as therapist and friend AI is not just in the workplace. For many people, young or mature, it has become a steady mate, providing care and direction on a lot of things, from health tips to fitness goals to surviving a heartbreak. Over half of Gen Zers see AI as an intimate buddy, with 26% calling it a friend, 16% see it as a counselor and therapist, and 6% a 'lover.' 19% have requested AI to help pen letters requesting forgiveness, while 8% turned to it to write breakup mails. This emotional 'subcontracting' emphasises a generational trend — for countless digital citizens, turning to AI for personal sustenance is as natural as breathing or texting a friend. The fine line between tool and authority Notwithstanding its remarkable skills, AI has critical limits, and Gen Z cannot always spot them. Only 31% of users steadily fact-check the material AI delivers, hypothetically obscuring the line between correct and truthful guidance and outright fabrication. As AI continues to advance, its role in people's lives, especially Gen Z's, is growing quicker than people's capacity to set clear parameters. Whether it's used to gain efficiency, acquire emotional support, or attain creative stimulus, the technology is irrefutably rewriting what it means to work, live, and connect. The task now is not just to know what AI can achieve, but how intelligently people choose to exploit its capabilities.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
One in 10 Gen Zers want their boss to be replaced by AI—they say that bots are more ‘human'
Amid the frenzy that AI will result in job losses, there's one role Gen Zers are secretly hoping the bots will replace: The boss. And 69% are already being polite to ChatGPT just in case. When it comes to AI and job security, most Gen Z are caught up in worrying about the future of their own jobs. But some are not so secretly hoping that bosses will be replaced by the new technology. A snap poll from essay writing service EduBirdie highlights that one in 10 Gen Z workers are pining for a robot boss. While wishing for the demise of a manager is nothing new, what's eye-opening is the reasons why they think the likes of ChatGPT and Gemini would make for a better manager. For one, they ironically think it'd be more human. Most of the Gen Zers said that AI will be a nicer, fairer, and more neutral boss. While some think a virtual manager would be a lot smarter than the current human one they have, others predict they'd be able to manipulate AI management easily. Worryingly, some respondents reported that an AI boss 'won't hit on me' and would be 'less scary.' And whether or not, workers are actually destined to report into robots any time soon, nearly 70% of the 2,000 young Americans surveyed are already extra polite to ChatGPT just in case. Despite Gen Z's wishes, managers are more likely to be replaced by peers who use AI, as opposed to AI itself. A separate recent survey highlights that the vast majority of bosses predict they'll lose their jobs within two years if they don't master AI skills. But they may be more at risk of losing bright young talent if they don't start managing like humans. 'Gen Z's desire to replace their human boss with AI is a red flag for their managers,' Avery Morgan, chief human resources officer at EduBirdie tells Fortune. 'This points to burned-out, disengaged leaders failing to meet basic human needs.' Rather than being wowed by AI's capability or how a virtual boss could bring about more flexibility to workplaces, Morgan stresses that workers wanting this bosses to be replaced signals 'they're dealing with unfairness, confusion, and toxicity at work'. All of which are on the rise with return to office mandates. But there's good news: Brushing up on soft skills may be a double whammy solution to avoid getting replaced by AI and losing Gen Z staff. 'I don't believe AI can replace professional managers who bring emotional intelligence, empathy, ethical judgment, and creative problem-solving to the table,' Morgan says. 'The irony is that the aspects of management that make us most distinctly human are precisely what's missing when employees prefer machines.' Morgan's advise for managers is to create environment where employees feel safe enough to give you feedback—like, that they wish you were a robot—to your face, or at the very least, through anonymous surveys. 'You don't need to be everyone's best friend, but you do need to be approachable, transparent, consistent, and ethical,' she says. 'Respect personal boundaries, keep conversations professional, and be fair in your decisions. If you make a mistake, own it and apologize.' For Gen Z, stuck under a toxic or unprofessional manager, Morgan suggests going to HR or a senior leader. 'If your work anxiety is tied to one person and something feels off, it probably is,' she says, adding to factually document any bad behaviour, such as instances of when they've crossed personal boundaries. 'Write down dates and details, save emails, messages, or anything else that supports your case,' Morgan adds. 'Toxicity often hides behind fake smiles and 'we're like family' claims, but don't let that keep you stuck. 'If there's no support in place, leave. No title, salary, or opportunity is worth your mental health.' This story was originally featured on
Forbes
12-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
4 Side Gigs Earn Up To $30k Annual Income For Full-Time Workers
Side hustles are no longer optional in today's economy. Many American full-time workers need ... More lucrative side gigs like these to keep up with rising costs. Gig jobs are not longer optional in today's tight economy. Amid the rise of financial uncertainty and inflation, more people are turning to flexible online work, including freelancing, e-commerce and AI-powered content creation to keep up with skyrocketing costs. One reason side gigs are becoming the new normal is that workers are tired of the stress and uncertainty in a job that could end at any moment. Side gigs give you the autonomy to be the captain of your own ship, instead of a passenger whose fate is determined by big business that might not have your best interests at heart. Statistics show that 71% of Americans are searching for secondary income sources through side gigs. As prices soar and the new administration continues making cuts, the economy is tightening, and AI advances are causing massive layoffs. Here are five reasons you need a side gig in the 2025 job market: to increase your income, reduce financial stress, gain more opportunities, enjoy more flexibility and save time with job searches. I spoke with Avery Morgan, CHRO at EduBirdie, and she told me that extra money isn't really extra anymore, that it's a necessity for many of today's workers. 'For many Americans, side hustles aren't optional in today's economy, they help them to keep up with rising costs, uncertainty, and evolving career priorities.' Morgan cites statistics showing that nearly 39% of employed adults already earn extra income, and another 17% plan to join them soon. she points out that for 41% of workers, that extra cash already goes to make ends meet. 'And with Trump's tariffs projected to cost the average household $1,200 a year, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics, low- and middle-income Americans could be hit much harder,' she asserts. A new survey from the global online tutoring platform Superprof reveals a growing shift in how Americans are approaching side gigs. One in three survey respondents said they're willing to dedicate five-to–10 hours a week to online work. Respondents say the top five online money-making activities they're involved in are taking online surveys, online investing, freelancing, selling on e-commerce platforms and testing websites and apps. You can find more high-paying side hustles, requiring no experience here. Morgan argues that, if you think side hustles aren't worth it, you're wrong. She notes that in 2024, the average gig job brought in $891 per month (that's over $10K per year), with nearly 19% of people earning over $1,000. The best part, she underscores, is that many of the side gigs can fit into your schedule without overwhelming your day job. She lists four lucrative side gigs that can earn top dollar: 'Good writing skills are still in demand, no matter what they say about AI,' Morgan insists. 'The ability to break down complex ideas and make engaging, thoughtful content can easily turn into a lucrative side hustle.' She points out that many coaches, executives or creatives are looking for someone to help them with their writing, such as LinkedIn posts, podcast scripts or online course modules. She emphasizes that they need this assistance on a regular basis, willing to pay about $500-$2500 per month. 'You don't need many clients to get started,' Morgan notes. 'Just offer your services to people you know, or email someone directly on LinkedIn. If you have strong writing skills, it's a great way to earn extra income remotely. Plus, you'll get to learn from industry pros and build valuable connections.' Morgan points out that an empty garage, parking space, shed or even your backyard can all be turned into extra income. 'On platforms like Neighbor, Spacer or Peerspace, it's simple: take a couple of photos, list a price and place an ad. A garage or shed can be rented out to store other people's stuff, it can bring $50 to $300 a month. And your backyard can get you $100-$1000 per booking, if you host photo shoots or small events. Another option is to rent out things you have lying around, such as power tools, marquees, barbecues, sports gear or musical instruments. Altogether, it can bring from $500 to $2000 per month.' 'If you like plants, try growing simple succulents or cacti at home. They are unpretentious and do not require much care,' Morgan recommends. 'After one to two months, you will have accumulated mature plants you can use to make sets like 'a gift for a colleague' or 'greenery on the desktop.' She suggests selling them on sites like Etsy, eBay, or Amazon Handmade. 'It takes about $50 for pots, soil, and the first plants to get started," she explains. 'From there, all you need is a little time for plant care and sorting out the delivery. Selling three to five kits a week at $20 to $40, you can make $300 to $1,000 a month doing this in your free time.' Morgan mentions that you can earn money simply by sharing your opinions on buying goods, services you use or just your experience. 'These sessions are held online, often via video and typically take 30 minutes to an hour,' she explains. 'You can get $50 to $250 per participation.' She recommends that you try sites like User Interviews, and Prolific, which target working professionals, parents or niche audiences. 'To get started, just sign up, fill out your profile and respond to offers,' she advises. 'Even if you only participate in 2-3 surveys a month, that's already $200-300.' advises employers and job seekers to prepare for a potential hiring surge starting this month. May is the peak month for people to quit their jobs, with 27% of resignations each year happening during the month of May. If you're tight for income, side gigs can help you get ahead and stay on your feet in this fast-changing, uncertain economy.
Forbes
11-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
4 Steps To Revive Yourself When Your Job Is Grinding You Down
If your job is grinding you down, a four-step plan can get back you back into the game, and you ... More don't have to quit your job. If you're like most of the American workforce, your job could be burning you out, and you'd like to say, 'Take this job and shove it.' But you can't afford to because of economic uncertainty, layoffs and tariffs. But there are other steps you can take, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month, to avoid burnout and find peace of mind. What about you? If it feels like your job is grinding you down, here are expert tips on what you can do to get your life back. If you feel like the job is too much and you're hitting a wall, you're not alone. A notable 49% of U.S. workers feel stressed every single day, according to Gallup. It's no wonder that Google searches for 'how to stоp thinking about work' have jumped 238% in the past month—a clear sign of a growing mental health crisis. While you're panicking over layoffs and inbox ping fatigue, chronic stress is doing long-term damage, linked to heart attacks, high blood pressure and strokes. In honor of May's Mental Health Awareness Month, Avery Morgan, CHRO at EduBirdie, exposes the cost of caring too much and how to cut the mental cord before it cuts you down. Morgan told me by email that caring about your job is a good thing in a way because it means you're invested and passionate. 'But there's a difference between taking your work seriously and letting every tiny thing wreck your mental state,' she cautions. "If you've ever hit 'Send' and then stared into the existential void, wondering if you used too many exclamation marks, had an anxiety attack before presenting results or cried in the bathroom over one offhand comment, yeah, you care too damn much," Morgan assures. But don't fret. She provides a number of tips on how you can stоp overthinking your way into burnout and start owning your workday with more peace of mind: "Anxiety thrives on vague fears. To fight it, name what causes it. Write down the absolute worst thing that could happen if something goes wrong. Maybe your project gets delayed. Maybe your manager's a little annoyed. Nоw, write the plan: how would you handle it? What would you say? Who could help? You just turned anxiety into a strategy," Morgan explains. 'One bоnus trick: exaggerate that worst-case scenario until it's ridiculous. You make a typo, and your team's laughing, your bоss faints and the planet explodes. Sounds dumb, right? That's the point. Most fears lоse their power once you realize how overblown they really are.' 'Trying not to worry is like trying not to sneeze — it's gonna happen anyway, and it's going to be loud. So give it a space. Literally block 15 minutes on your calendar labeled 'Worry dump.' During that time, go wild. Stress, spiral or journal it out. Once that timer's up, close this mental tab and gеt back to work. You're not avoiding worry, you're managing it.' "Decision fatigue hits hardest when emotions run high. So, make your rules before the drama actually gets the chanсe to happen. For example: 'If I don't hear back in 48 hours, I will follow up.' Or 'I don't make major edits after 9 PM.' These micro-boundaries sаve your brainpower, reduce second-guessing, and build trust in your own process. They also keep you from overworking, even if you strive for perfection," Avery points out. "One of the most underrated ways to stоp obsessing? Ask real people for actual feedback. Not fishing for compliments, but some real constructive feedback. It takes the pressure off guessing what others think and gives you something concrete to work with. To digest it more easily, ask colleagues for simple, actionable glow & grow points," Morgan says. 'Then, the hard part: take the note, make the change (if needed), and move on, no replaying it in your head. The trick is creating a mental divide between your personality and your skills. Yes, you can make mistakes—that doesn't make you stupid. Yes, you might have little experience in some areas—that doesn't make you incapable. The moment you stоp taking everything personally and start seeing feedback as data to help you grow, you'll feel way more powerful at work.' 'Caring isn't the prоblem; the spiraling is," Morgan concludes. 'Preparing for worst-case scenarios, giving worry a time slot, building decision rules and stopping mind-reading everyone in the office will help you make caring just enough your nеw superpower." And the feeling that your job is grinding you down, will disappear.
Forbes
11-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
If Your Job Is Quietly Killing You, This 4-Step Plan Brings Life Back
If your job is killing you, there's a way out, and you don't have to quit to get back into the game. If you're like most of the American workforce, your job is killing you, and you'd like to say, 'Take this job and shove it.' But you can't afford to because of economic uncertainty, layoffs and tariffs. But there other steps you can take, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month, to avoid burnout and find peace of mind. What about you? If your job is quietly killing you, here are expert tips on what you can do to get your life back. If your job is quietly killing you, you're not alone by any means. A notable 49% of U.S. workers feel stressed every single day, according to Gallup. It's no wonder that Google searches for 'how to stоp thinking about work' have jumped 238% in the past month— a clear sign of a growing mental health crisis. While you're panicking over layoffs and inbox ping fatigue, chronic stress is doing long-term damage, linked to heart attacks, high blood pressure and strokes. In honor of May's Mental Health Awareness Month, Avery Morgan, CHROI at EduBirdie, exposes the cost of caring too much and how to cut the mental cord before it cuts you down. Morgan told me by email that caring about your job is a good thing in a way because it means you're invested and passionate. 'But there's a difference between taking your work seriously and letting every tiny thing wreck your mental state,' she cautions. "If you've ever hit 'Send' and then stared into the existential void, wondering if you used too many exclamation marks, had an anxiety attack before presenting results or cried in the bathroom over one offhand comment, yeah, you care too damn much," Morgan assures. But don't fret. She provides a number of tips on how you can stоp overthinking your way into burnout and start owning your workday with more peace of mind: "Anxiety thrives on vague fears. To fight it, name what causes it. Write down the absolute worst thing that could happen if something goes wrong. Maybe your project gets delayed. Maybe your manager's a little annoyed. Nоw, write the plan: how would you handle it? What would you say? Who could help? You just turned anxiety into a strategy," Avery explains. 'One bоnus trick: exaggerate that worst-case scenario until it's ridiculous. You make a typo, and your team's laughing, your bоss faints, and the planet explodes. Sounds dumb, right? That's the point. Most fears lоse their power once you realize how overblown they really are.' She highlights: 'Trying not to worry is like trying not to sneeze — it's gonna happen anyway, and it's going to be loud. So give it a space. Literally block 15 minutes on your calendar labeled 'Worry dump.' During that time, go wild. Stress, spiral, journal it out. Once that timer's up, close this mental tab and gеt back to work. You're not avoiding worry, you're managing it.' "Decision fatigue hits hardest when emotions run high. So, make your rules before the drama actually gets the chanсe to happen. For example: 'If I don't hear back in 48 hours, I will follow up.' Or 'I don't make major edits after 9 PM.' These micro-boundaries sаve your brainpower, reduce second-guessing, and build trust in your own process. They also keep you from overworking, even if you strive for perfection," Avery comments. "One of the most underrated ways to stоp obsessing? Ask real people for actual feedback. Not fishing for compliments, but some real constructive feedback. It takes the pressure off guessing what others think and gives you something concrete to work with. To digest it more easily, ask colleagues for simple, actionable glow & grow points," Avery says. 'Then, the hard part: take the note, make the change (if needed), and move on, no replaying it in your head. The trick is creating a mental divide between your personality and your skills. Yes, you can make mistakes — that doesn't make you stupid. Yes, you might have little experience in some areas — that doesn't make you incapable. The moment you stоp taking everything personally and start seeing feedback as data to help you grow, you'll feel way more powerful at work.' Morgan adds: "Caring isn't the prоblem; the spiraling is. Preparing for worst-case scenarios, giving worry a time slot, building decision rules, and stopping mind-reading everyone in the office will help you make caring just enough your nеw superpower."
