Letters | Early retirement? Young people should search their fun-loving souls

Readers discuss the work ethic of the younger generations, the sensitivity in Hong Kong over the June 4 anniversary, and the opposition to building flats on the Fanling golf course

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Two large inflatable yellow ducks are seen in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour on June 9, as part of a public art exhibition. Compared to the older generations, young people today tend to prioritise work-life balance, travel and entertainment over a strong work ethic. Photo: AFP

Published: 11:30am, 24 Jun 2023

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A recent phenomenon has got me contemplating employment, work-life balance and retirement: many millennials and self-proclaimed digital natives in my social circle have talked about aiming to retire in their 30s and 40s, while those past retirement age have expressed a strong desire to stay on in the workforce to contribute to society.

These two conflicting schools of thought coincide with Hong Kong’s recent efforts to find and retain talent. The young people and soon-to-be retirees apparently have very different outlooks on work and life. The former seem to prioritise work-life balance, travel and entertainment, whereas the latter value an ethic of hard work and a meaningful life.

I’m by no means pitting the two groups against each other, nor am I judging whose lifestyle is more superior. But back in the 1970 and ’80s when Hong Kong’s economy was taking flight, we championed the Lion Rock spirit, which emphasised perseverance, diligence and an unyielding work ethic. Thanks to the dogged determination and hard work of the previous generation, our city thrived and transformed itself into an international financial centre and a mecca for business.

All the great strides Hong Kong made would not have been possible without the positive values of the hard workers now in their 60s and 70s, who put their heart and soul into building a strong foundation for our city’s growth.

They still have a lot left in their tanks and plenty to offer in the workplace. A prime example is Arthur Li Kwok-cheung, at 78 a member of the Executive Council of Hong Kong.