For years, the message for young women was clear: build an impressive career, stay independent, chase success, and don’t rely on anyone. The “girlboss” era told women they could (and should) “have it all” – success, money, status. But now? The trend is changing. EduBirdie asked Gen Z women to choose between four popular role models. And the results show many now want something calmer and more stable.
Here is how young women rank their dream lives:
#1 – The “tradwife” path (47%)
Almost half of Gen Z women prefer a calm and stable life: happily married, with kids, and perhaps a job of their own, while the man is the primary earner. They just want peace and security, without worrying about luxury or status. In a culture that often screams to want more, women seem to want less pressure instead. Trends like “soft life” and an anti-hustle mindset, where people choose balance over burnout, prove that women are just tired. A stable life now just feels safer and less stressful. The traditional path is no longer seen as going backwards but as choosing a more balanced life long term.
#2 – The girlboss dream (23%)
Less than a quarter choose ultra-successful, independent, and famous lives, even if it means staying single or sacrificing personal life. But while a “girlboss” lifestyle is still attractive, especially for ambitious women, the archetype has changed. The power blazer still shows up on Pinterest boards, but styled with sneakers instead of stilettos. Gen Z girlbosses still want recognition and success, but softer, looser, and way more protective of their own peace. They’re no longer always working, always pushing, or always “on.”
#3 – The digital nomad (16%)
Only one in six chooses the creative, childfree, travel-focused life with a partner. This lifestyle looks like a “Pinterest life”: working remotely, travelling the world, and doing something creative. This lifestyle is very popular online, influencers often show a perfect picture – working from cafes, beaches, nice Airbnbs. But fewer and fewer women actually trust this. Constantly traveling and not having a clear routine can feel risky. As Gen Z women now choose more predictable lifestyles, being always on the move sounds exciting, but a bit chaotic.
#4 – The “trophy wife” route (14%)
The smallest number want to depend entirely on a rich partner and not work at all. Women now care about having their own income, choices, and control over their life. Having one person take care of everything doesn’t feel realistic anymore, both emotionally and financially. Gen Z women stopped romanticising dependence as being “kept” can feel limiting. Even when choosing a more traditional life, they desire purpose, structure, and independence outside of relationships. But they still like the idea of a comfortable life without constant pressure. This option just became more of a fantasy than a real plan.
