Living with Gen Z: Insights from a Millennial’s Perspective

Due to my husband's work, we are currently splitting our family life between New York and London, which has led us to hire Rossella, a Gen Z from Italy. This setup supports me going back to work part-time and has given me a fascinating front-row seat to cultural and generational insights. As we go about our daily routines, I'm constantly picking up on the little (and big) things that make her generation tick differently from mine…

But first, let’s define the elusive Gen Z or zoomers. They're not just teenagers anymore! They make up 40% of worldwide consumers despite only being 30% of the population and 25% of the workforce. Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z is the first fully "digital native" generation. They grew up with social media and smartphones, making them a unique and powerful force. As of 2024, they'll be between the ages of 12 and 27, representing a demographic that's just coming of age.

Digital: Adopter vs Native?

I’ve noticed Rossella constantly referencing social media (TikTok or Instagram) as her go-to for all information, whether that’s an opinion, vegan recipe, news, or where to go. Whereas I would go straight to the source content, most things are curated through algorithms for Gen Z.?

Johnathan Haidt’s recent book “The Anxious Generation” argues that the ubiquitous presence of smartphones and the resultant constant connectivity have profoundly affected the mental health of young people. He states that social media platforms that promote comparison, likes and instant feedback, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and anxiety. This is compounded by the decline in face-to-face interactions replaced by digital communications which has led to weaker development of social skills and empathy in younger generations. Luckily Rossella is well socialised and a pleasure to have around but I have noticed she thinks nothing of spending hours FaceTiming friends and family without a purpose to the conversation - it’s as if having them on a screen creates company.? Rossella is hyper-aware of the threat digital devices have on humanity and happiness and claims she’s always been anxious and has ambitions of digital detoxes - not that these have happened yet!?

Here and Now: Living in the Moment Because Tomorrow Is Uncertain

For Rosella, it seems the future is uncertain. With the daily barrage of headlines about climate change, economic fluctuations, and political instability, there’s a real sense of urgency to make the most of now. This shift from how I grew up thinking about planning and the future—to seeing Rossella just living for today—really highlights the different ways our generations view what’s coming next. Rossella believes past generations (boomers and X, less so millennials - phew!) had it so easy and were selfish in their actions which have manifested today’s challenges.?

She observes that Millennials, including myself, were often on a relentless hamster wheel, spurred by the promise we could "have it all" — a fulfilling career, family life, and home ownership. Yet, a significant portion of us have found these goals out of reach, with a considerable number, myself included, unable to afford a house due to soaring prices and economic instability. This disillusionment has shaped Gen Z's perception of success, steering them away from traditional milestones and wanting to just “live their lives”.? Rossella focuses on living fully in the present, prioritising personal fulfillment and immediate experiences over the pursuit of long-term goals. She also feels no need to find her identity in becoming someone’s mother or wife. This shift in generational attitudes not only underscores the different outlooks on prospects but also highlights a strategic reevaluation of what it means to live a successful and meaningful life in today’s complex and digital world.

Balance Is Key: Work Isn’t Everything

Work-life balance is something Rossella takes seriously, way more than I remember doing at her age. Her generation seems tuned into the importance of mental health and finding a good balance between work and personal life.?

Popular songs often reflect the zeitgeist. I came of age to Britney Spears’s Work Bitch, from 2013, stating “if you want good things, you have to slog”. In 2021, Olivia Rodrigo’s 2021 track Good 4 U complains that a former love interest’s “career is taking off”.

Prioritising Health: Vegan and Alcohol-Free Habits

Rossella epitomises the stereotypical Gen Z by being a vegan who rarely drinks. Gen Z's approach to diet and drinking reflects a broader commitment to well-being and sustainability.

Rossella’s veganism is driven by health, ethical considerations, environment, and animal welfare, and her wealth of knowledge in this space comes from the popularity of a plant-based lifestyle on social media. She also aligns with Gen Z’s trend to drink less valuing mental clarity, and physical and mental health above excessive consumption.?

My approach to diet and drinking is driven by enjoyment and sociability but her Gen Z ways have definitely made me think twice about my carnivorous diet.? It’s refreshing to have someone not reliant on drinking for socializing although this is a wider trend with millennials too through the rise of non-alc.?

Shopping with a Conscience: Choosing Brands That Matter

When it comes to shopping, Rossella leans heavily towards brands that are not just about the product but about what they stand for and how they will help the future of our planet. She’s all about ethical practices and sustainability, and it’s not just talk. Her choices are driven by a brand’s transparency and impact on society.?

Rossella thought it was weird when I specifically asked her about brands showing a departure from brand dominance. Gen Z are skeptical of advertising and less influenced by influencers than Millennials. Growing up in a digital-heavy environment Gen Z has learned to discern and evaluate the authenticity and intent of marketing.?

Wrapping It Up: Learning from Each Other

Sharing our space with Rossella isn't just about helping each other out; it’s a daily dive into what life is like for each other's generation. Her perspectives and youthful energy have definitely added a new layer to our family dynamics.?

I’ve found it fascinating to delve deeper into understanding Gen Z and I hope it’s making me younger in my outlook!?;-)