Gen Z Ditches Bucket Lists for the 'F*ck It List'
Forget meticulously planned bucket lists. Gen Z has embraced a new philosophy: the "F*ck It List." This modern mantra, a bolder cousin of the "YOLO" era, prioritizes experiences and self-discovery, often fueled by wanderlust.
This isn't about reckless abandon; it's about intentional living. Gen Z has witnessed the burnout of previous generations and is actively choosing alignment over approval. They're rejecting rigid timelines and fixed locations, opting instead for a fluid list of things that spark joy, with Skyscanner as their ever-present guide.
This movement represents a recalibration, not mere rebellion. After watching millennials struggle with broken promises, Gen Z is curating wishlists that genuinely resonate. It's less about material possessions and more about pursuing experiences that might otherwise be perpetually postponed. Imagine mastering pasta-making in Tuscany, diving in the Maldives with newfound friends, or taking a solitary journey to Tokyo for some introspection with matcha ice cream.
The definition of "success" is undergoing a transformation, driven by the "soft life" philosophy and a collective existential questioning. Passport stamps and personal growth are replacing car keys and corner offices as the new benchmarks. The sentiment, "I realised I didn’t dream of labour," echoes across social media. Stable mental health is the new KPI.
While some may perceive this as irresponsible or a privilege, Gen Z views it as a means of survival. In an era where homeownership seems unattainable and the job market precarious, "live now, save later" feels less like a radical choice and more like a pragmatic one.
Here are a few examples of how Gen Z is embracing the "F*ck It List" in real life:
In the summer or 2023, my then 21-year-old self ditched her MBA plans for a gap year, and spent her days working at an art gallery in Miami's Design Destrict. Safe to say it was the best year of my life. A true fever dream.
Riaan, 25: "At the beginning of my quarter life crisis, I booked a solo trip to Berlin just to attend a 72-hour techno festival—and what an experience that was! It really put my future into perspective for me. Not expecting a another crisis anytime soon."
Ishaana, 22: "I moved to Seoul for three months to chase my K-drama fantasies. I'm learning Korean, journaling in cafés that play IU on loop, and finally living that Pinterest board I made in 2018."
Dev, 24: "I spent my Diwali bonus on a cooking class in Sicily because I binge-watched The Bear and decided I was ready in ever way to chase this unrealised dream. I just knew it'd kill me if I didn't do this at the time. Zero regrets."
So, take a leap. Invest some of your savings in that spontaneous beach getaway. Embrace the beautiful chaos. Book that flight. Life is fleeting, and the "F*ck It List" beckons.