As Baby Boomers, we often think we know it all. After all, our generation has seen it all – from the civil rights movement to the technological revolution and everything in between. We are resilient and knowledgeable about what works and how to get things done.
However, Gen Z might have something to teach us when it comes to life skills and world views. If you’re curious what the younger generation can teach Boomers, read on.
#1. Gen Z is the Most Diverse Generation Ever
According to Pew Research Center, 56% of Gen Z is non-white, compared to just 38% of baby boomers.
This diversity is due in part to changing immigration patterns and interracial marriage, but it also reflects the increasing acceptance of people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds in American society.
#2. They Are More Open to Change
Gen Z has grown up in a time of rapid change, and as a result, they are more open to change than any other generation.
They are comfortable with change in their personal lives, such as moving to a new city or changing careers. They are also comfortable with change in the world around them, such as same-sex marriage and legal marijuana.
#3. Gen Z Are Way More Tolerant of Others
Gen Z is the most tolerant generation ever, according to Pew Research Center. They are more accepting of people who are different from them, whether it be in terms of race, religion, or sexuality.
This tolerance is likely due to the increase in contact with people from different backgrounds that Gen Z has experienced through the internet and social media.
#4. Gen Z Are More Comfortable Being Individualistic
Gen Z is more individualistic than any other generation, according to a study by Twenge et al.
This individualism is reflected in their attitudes towards work, with Gen Z being less likely than previous generations to want to work for a large company or climb the corporate ladder. Instead, they prefer to work for themselves or start their own businesses.
#5. Gen Z is More Entrepreneurial
Related to their individualism, Gen Z is also the most entrepreneurial generation ever, according to a study by Goldman Sachs. This entrepreneurship is driven by a desire for independence and a lack of faith in traditional institutions such as corporations and government.
#6. They Are Better Educated
Gen Z has surpassed all previous generations in terms of education, according to Pew Research Center. 36% of Gen Z adults have at least some college experience, compared to just 28% of baby boomers.
This increase in educational attainment is due in part to the rising cost of tuition and the increasing importance of a college degree in the job market.
#7. Way More Digitally Savvy
Gen Z grew up with technology and as a result, they are much more digitally savvy than older generations.
They are comfortable using new technologies and understand how to use them for tasks such as research and communication. Additionally, they are more likely than older generations to be early adopters of new technologies
#8. Work/Life Balance is Important
One of the things that Gen Z value most is a good work/life balance. They are willing to trade higher pay for more time off and flexible work schedules. Boomers can learn from this and start to focus on achieving a better balance between work and the rest of their lives.
#9. Previous Generation’s Debt Shouldn’t Be Their Burden
Gen Z have seen firsthand the financial burden that debt can place on someone’s life. Many of them are working to pay off student loans and credit card debt. Boomers can learn from this and make sure to avoid taking on too much debt in their own lives.
#10. Saving for Retirement is Crucial
Many Gen Z are already saving for retirement, even though they are still young. They understand the importance of starting to save early and are doing everything they can to make sure they will be financially secure in their golden years. Boomers can learn from this and make sure to start saving for retirement as soon as possible.
#11. Health is Important
Gen Z place a high value on health and wellness. They are more likely to exercise regularly and eat healthy foods than previous generations. Boomers can learn from this and make sure to take care of their own health as they age.
#12. Experiences are More Important Than Things
For Gen Z, experiences are often more important than material possessions. They would rather spend money on travel, concerts, and other experiences than on expensive cars or houses. Boomers can learn from this and focus on creating experiences that they will enjoy in their later years.
This article was produced and syndicated by Mama Say What?!
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Krakenimages.com
Tim Thomas is a renowned writer and entrepreneur specializing in finance, investing, and money matters. With his extensive knowledge and experience in the financial sector, Tim offers valuable insights into the world of personal finance, stock market trends, and investment strategies.
