The concept of “lying flat,” which expresses a rejection from relentless work and competition exemplified by the 996 work culture, went viral on Chinese social media due to a Baidu post called “Lying Flat Is Justice” in 2021 April. Two years into this trend, the National Survey Research Center at Renmin University of China conducted a recent survey on the development of Chinese youth, aiming to gain insights into their perspectives on “lying flat” and the underlying motivations behind embracing this lifestyle.
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Unmasking the reality of “lying flat” and “standing straight”
With data collected from 60,000 individuals aged 18 to 35 on Weibo, this #survey shows that 28.5% of young people live a 45-degree life# (调查称28.5%青年过着45度人生), which caught netizens’ attention and was viewed over 7.85 million times in the last week of November. Despite the apparent popularity of the “lying flat” (躺平) movement on Chinese social media in recent years, approximately 58.7% of respondents opted not to adopt the practice in their actual lives. Instead, they chose to “stand up straight” （站直）and strive for the better.
“45-degree life” as a middle ground for China’s youth
On the flip side, the concept of a “45-degree life” appears to represent a middle ground, a compromise between overwork and complete idleness. “This survey result is not surprising at all. With such rapid societal development, young people must keep up with the pace. Moreover, there are various pressures, and it’s not like you can just lie down whenever you want.” A netizen commented.
Implication of “45-degree life” to the Chinese labor force market
The trend of “lying flat” and embracing a “45-degree life” in China implies a significant shift in consumer values towards a more balanced lifestyle. This shift is likely to drive increased demand for products and services that cater to work-life balance, such as flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and leisure-related activities. Simultaneously, there may be a growing market for mental health services, stress-relief products, and personalized offerings that align with the diverse preferences of individuals seeking a compromise between overwork and complete idleness. As companies adapt to these changing attitudes, the consumer market is poised for growth in industries focused on well-being, entertainment, and customized solutions that contribute to a healthier and more fulfilling life.
What to know about “45-degree life” in China
- The concept of “lying flat,” a response to the demanding 996 work culture, went viral in China and prompted a survey on youth perspectives by Renmin University.
- The survey, based on 60,000 Weibo users aged 18 to 35, showed that 28.5% embrace a “45-degree life,” while 58.7% prefer to “stand up straight” and pursue improvement.
- The trend signifies a shift in consumer values, potentially driving demand for well-being and entertainment-focused industries, including flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and mental health services.
