Decoding Gen Z: A Survival Guide for the 80s Born

Ah, the 80s. A time when mixtapes were the ultimate expression of love, MTV actually played music videos, and the internet was something only scientists and a few nerds whispered about in hushed tones. We grew up navigating a world that changed from analog to digital, but nothing could have prepared us for the enigma that is Gen Z. These digital natives are a fascinating breed—hyperconnected, socially conscious, and fluent in a language that often leaves us scratching our heads. But fear not, fellow 80s-born comrades! Here’s your guide to reading Gen Z, with a mix of admiration, a dash of humor, and a whole lot of respect.

Attention Span of a Goldfish? Think Again.

It’s a common misconception that Gen Z has the attention span of a goldfish. Sure, they might scroll through content at lightning speed, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t absorbing information. In fact, they’re masters of multitasking and can process information faster than any generation before them. If you want to capture their attention, keep your messages short, sharp, and to the point. But don’t underestimate their ability to engage deeply with content that resonates with them—they’re more thoughtful and reflective than they often get credit for.