The Chinese Dream undergoes transformations as Generation Z brings their restless spirit.

In China, there is currently a mismatch between the number of graduates and the available jobs. Many young people, like 23-year-old Joy Zhang, are struggling to find full-time employment. Official data from August 2022 shows that over 20% of people between the ages of 16 and 24 are unemployed in China. With a slowing economy and the uncertainty created by the Covid pandemic, job opportunities have diminished. This has led to a shift in mindset among China's Generation Z, who no longer believe that studying hard will guarantee them a good job and comfortable life. The pandemic has forced them to reassess their expectations and consider alternative paths. Anthropologist Xiang Biao describes this as a "re-scripting of the Chinese dream." Young people are reevaluating the traditional notion of success and embracing different aspirations. Many have stopped actively searching for jobs and have chosen to return home to live with their parents or pursue unconventional lifestyles. Although some remain disillusioned, others see this period as an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. While the Chinese government is concerned about social discontent among disillusioned youth, there is no sign of widespread protests. President Xi Jinping has urged young people to endure hardship and take up manual labor if necessary. However, the younger generation still desires more than just stability and are determined to pursue their own dreams and explore the world. They may rewrite the Chinese narrative, shifting it away from the ideals of prosperity and growth towards a new definition of success and fulfillment.