Statistics show more young people in China are selecting positions with the civil service, state-owned enterprises and other public institutions for more stable lives.

Some people might call this trend overly conservative. But in today's China, young people are finding that in public-sector jobs, they can do more to promote social progress and realize their own self-worth.

Many years ago, people who entered the government and other state-affiliated institutions were known as cadres. Historically, college students were virtually guaranteed a public sector job when they graduated, even without necessarily participating in the more rigorous civil service examination. They were free of the intense competition of the private sector, making it easier for them to plan their lives.

The large-scale privatization that followed the period of reform and opening-up in 1980s has created more opportunity, but also more uncertainty in the lives of many young Chinese. For many, realization of their identity and self-worth has become more important than mere material gain.

From this rationale, today's youth cannot be blamed for desiring a life filled with collective purpose and stability. However, for China's economy to transform, we also need to promote a vigorous culture of innovation.

It can be said that private sector jobs bring people more freedom of opportunity, but at a much higher personal risk. Likewise, the public sector provides security for individuals, but at a greater collective risk – in that if less talented people enter the private sector, the country's competitiveness will flag.

If we cannot find a better way to distribute talented graduates across all sectors, the country will collectively face the consequences in the years to come.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.