In Catalonia, young people are increasingly putting well-being, stable work and personal time ahead of traditional career ambition, according to activist Sandy Martos. On 4 June 2026, Martos said that “working to live and not living to work is one of the greatest forms of self-care”.
The view reflects the pressures many young people face, including job insecurity, high rents and academic overqualification. For many, success now means having a steady job with decent conditions and a salary that covers daily life without constant stress.
That does not mean they lack ambition. Martos said their ambition is often directed outside the workplace, towards family, friends, hobbies and personal projects. They are willing to work hard and meet their responsibilities, but they are less willing to let a job take over their lives.
Martos also said any increase in salary or responsibility would be weighed carefully against the loss of time and energy. The question, in this view, is whether a promotion is worth it if it leaves no room for the things that matter most.
The shift could affect employment trends and workplace policies across Catalonia, especially as younger workers look for flexibility, supportive cultures and room for personal development. It also points to a broader change in how success is defined, with mental health and balance carrying more weight than relentless progression.
For more Catalonia-wide reporting, see our news coverage.