Half of workers have experienced a quarter-life career crisis, survey shows

More than half — 55% — of U.S. workers say they experienced a quarter-life career crisis between ages 20-35 or are currently going through one, according to an Aug. 8 report from FlexJobs.

Workers pointed to factors such as stress, instability, disconnection and stagnation in their careers, ultimately leading to burnout and uncertainty about their path forward. In fact, 27% said they’re not confident their current job will exist in five years.

“Coping with a quarter-life career crisis is a defining moment for the majority of today’s workforce,” Toni Frana, a career expert at FlexJobs, said in a statement. “Although the experience can be incredibly difficult to navigate, many younger workers come out of it with a stronger sense of direction, greater career clarity and long-lasting purpose in their professional lives.”

In a survey of 2,200 U.S. workers, 77% said they think about work during their off time, and 22% said it’s on their minds nonstop. In addition, 65% said they feel stressed or overwhelmed during their typical workday, and 26% feel that way often.

Many of the top stressors are the result of instability and leadership challenges, the report found, such as difficult managers or co-workers, job insecurity or layoff concerns, a lack of clear expectations or direction, organizational instability and micromanagement.

Although 59% of workers described themselves as engaged, 60% said they’re bored in their roles, 71% said they’re burned out, and 54% said they feel stuck in their job.

When thinking about what could help, workers pointed to flexible work options, support systems and skill-building opportunities. Workers highlighted skill development, in particular, as a vital way to stay competitive, with 43% saying their top priority includes upskilling with technology or artificial intelligence tools.

To navigate the future of work, survey respondents also pointed to the importance of career development planning, mentorship, soft skills training and mental health resources. To help workers, employers can offer more accessible support systems that address both professional development and personal well-being, FlexJobs said.

Employers may also overlook middle-age and mid-career employees in crisis, according to a Perceptyx report. Leaders can acknowledge these transitional moments and offer more career growth opportunities to engage and retain workers at all life stages, the report found.