The younger generations are often criticised for their smartphone dependence, and are sometimes stigmatised as lazy and underachieving. Contrary to these assumptions, psychological expert, Dr Lena Wang, Co-Director of RMIT’s Centre for Organisations and Social Change (COSC), challenges these stereotypes. 

Her research shows that the concept of trends such as ‘Snail Girl’ and ‘Bare Minimum Mondays’ don't signify laziness and instead, she found “there is a great level of self-compassion and self-consciousness being reflected”.

The 'Snail Girl' trend advocates slowing down and being kind to oneself at work, in contrast to the 'girlboss' mentality that prioritises relentless dedication to 'the grind.' Similarly, 'Bare Minimum Mondays' encourages workers to perform only the minimum required tasks, reducing anxiety on Sundays and easing the Monday morning rush.

Dr Wang's research, which centres on understanding and fostering positive individual attributes and behaviours at work; and advancing organisational diversity and inclusion, reveals a noteworthy shift. She highlights “Younger generations are rejecting a lifestyle that focuses on the pursuit of external driven rewards such as money, fame and status, which has been the focus of older generation’s for many years. Many people are now realising that living a fulfilling, rewarding life is more important than those external rewards.”

Her research also suggests that these trends could positively impact the mental health issues affecting our society. Dr. Wang notes, "Additionally, I do think the trends are one of the responses to the pressing mental health issues in our society. Increasing mental health awareness encourages more people to take a step back and think about how they want to live a better life and to practise self-care more meaningfully."

So, what do 'snail girl' and 'bare minimum Mondays' mean for us? Dr. Wang points out that the interpretation of these trends can vary widely depending on individual values. She explains, "In terms of people's interpretation of these trends, everyone will approach this differently depending on their own values. People who place a high value on the importance of work and extrinsic rewards may continue doing what they usually do. But this trend would particularly resonate with those who have experienced burnout, which may have compelled them to take a more profound look at their current situation and consider a different way of living."

So, what's your take? Is it a sign of laziness, or has this younger generation discovered a mental health life hack through these social media trends? Changing values and priorities are reshaping our approach to work and life, making us reconsider success and happiness in this digital age. As we figure out this transformation, one thing is evident, these trends are sparking conversations about the balance between workplace dedication and personal well-being, leading the way to a fulfilling workplace for our youth.