‘Rat People’ Trend Reflects Chinese Youth’s Disillusionment, Echoing U.S. Struggles with Burnout
Updated
A growing trend among young people in China, self-identifying as “Rat People” or “Mouse Man,” has recently gone viral, sparking discussion and resonating with similar sentiments felt by millennials and Gen Z in the United States. This “low-energy” lifestyle, characterized by a rejection of conventional career-driven ambition, reflects a deeper sense of disillusionment and burnout in the face of societal pressures.
The “Mouse Man” lifestyle stands in stark contrast to the conventional image of disciplined productivity: early mornings, rigorous exercise, and a full day of work or study. Instead, individuals embracing this identity often spend their days primarily resting, ordering food through delivery services, avoiding social interaction, and lacking a defined sense of purpose.
The trend gained momentum in late February when a young woman from Zhejiang, using the social media handle @jiawensishi, began sharing her daily routine online, according to the South China Morning Post (SCMP). Her videos depicted her spending hours in bed even after waking up, briefly visiting the bathroom, and then sleeping for another five hours.She would only eat when her parents woke her in the evening.
By referring to herself as a “rat man,” Jiawensishi likened her slow-paced and detached existence to that of rats living in the sewers. This self-deprecating label resonated with many online users, with the video amassing over 400,000 likes and comments. One comment encapsulated the sentiment driving this lifestyle: “The Most Relevant Vlog has ever existed.”
“We are fed up with a fast -paced, practical, and super efficient lifestyle that is forced on us.”
Comment on Jiawensishi’s video
“We just want the freedom to lie anytime and wherever we want.”
Comment on Jiawensishi’s video
Lin, a woman from Beijing who works from home, told SCMP that she understands the sentiment. This desire for freedom and a slower pace of life mirrors the growing “quiet quitting” movement in the U.S., where employees are doing the bare minimum required of them at work, and the increasing focus on work-life balance.
Echoes of disillusionment in the U.S.
The “Rat People” phenomenon raises critically important questions about the pressures faced by young people today, both in China and the United States. The relentless pursuit of success, frequently enough defined by career advancement and material wealth, can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a sense of meaninglessness.
In the U.S., this manifests in various ways, from the rise of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire early) movement to the growing popularity of minimalism and the “van life” subculture.Thes trends reflect a desire to escape the traditional 9-to-5 grind and find choice ways to live a fulfilling life.
A recent study by Deloitte found that over 75% of millennials and Gen Z workers in the U.S. have experienced burnout at their current job. This alarming statistic highlights the need for employers to address the underlying causes of burnout, such as excessive workloads, lack of control, and inadequate recognition.
the “Rat People” trend and similar movements in the U.S. underscore the importance of re-evaluating societal expectations and prioritizing well-being over relentless productivity. It’s a call for creating a more sustainable and meaningful way of life for young people.
Practical Applications and Recent Developments
The insights gleaned from the “Rat People” trend can be applied to various areas, including:
- Workplace Culture: Companies can promote a healthier work habitat by offering flexible work arrangements, encouraging employees to take breaks, and providing mental health resources.
- Education: Educators can emphasize the importance of holistic development, promoting creativity, critical thinking, and self-care alongside academic achievement.
- Personal Development: Individuals can explore alternative lifestyles and career paths that align with their values and priorities, focusing on personal fulfillment rather than external validation.
Recent developments in this area include the growing adoption of four-day workweeks in some U.S. companies, as well as a greater emphasis on mental health benefits in employee compensation packages. These initiatives represent a positive step towards creating a more sustainable and supportive work environment.
As an example, companies like Kickstarter and Bolt have successfully implemented four-day workweeks, reporting increased employee productivity and satisfaction. This demonstrates that it’s possible to challenge traditional work structures and create a more balanced and fulfilling work experience.
Addressing Counterarguments
Some critics might argue that embracing a “low-energy” lifestyle is irresponsible and unproductive, hindering economic growth and individual potential. They might contend that young people should focus on contributing to society through hard work and innovation.
Though, proponents of this trend argue that prioritizing well-being and personal fulfillment can ultimately lead to greater productivity and innovation in the long run.By reducing burnout and increasing job satisfaction, individuals are more likely to be engaged and creative in their work.
Moreover, the “Rat People” phenomenon is not necessarily about abandoning productivity altogether, but rather about redefining success on one’s own terms.It’s about finding a balance between work and life, and prioritizing experiences and relationships over material possessions.
Conclusion
the “Rat People” trend in China serves as a powerful reminder of the pressures faced by young people in today’s fast-paced world. While the specific cultural context may differ, the underlying sentiments of disillusionment and burnout resonate with millennials and Gen Z in the United States. By addressing the root causes of these issues and creating a more sustainable and meaningful way of life, we can empower young people to thrive and contribute to society in a way that aligns with their values and priorities. The key takeaway is recognizing the need for systemic change and individual empowerment to create a society where success is measured not just by economic output, but also by well-being and fulfillment.
