General
downshifting
What does downshifting mean?
Voluntarily reducing one's workload, hours, or career ambitions to gain more time, less stress, and better work-life balance, often accepting lower pay in exchange.
"After the second heart scare, he started downshifting to a four-day week and never looked back."
Origin
Lifestyle term popularized in the 1990s; resurgent among Gen Z workers rejecting hustle culture.
Frequently asked questions
What does downshifting mean?
Voluntarily cutting back your workload, hours, or career ambitions for more free time and less stress, often accepting lower pay in return.
Why do people downshift?
To gain better work-life balance and reduce stress, frequently as a rejection of hustle culture.
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