Is Gen Z – Most Informed or Most Confused?

Sahana Bolloju

Where am I going? Am I using my sources for good or into something misleading? Am I on the right path? Am I working hard for my dream or wasting time? Am I even serious about anything in life? Can I be successful in life? These are the most common questions and doubts in every teenager – The Gen Z generation. Are these doubts and questions going to ruin young people’s future?

Generation Z teens have so much information and are evolved, yet feel so lost. Dr. Jean Twenge, psychologist and author of iGen, says that “today’s teenagers are on the brink of a mental health crisis, overwhelmed by constant information but lacking real connection.” According to national centre for health research, 33.7% youngsters (aged 17-25) report having some form of mental illness.

Why is this happening?

Youngsters sometimes get depressed over insignificant issues and lose focus on their true goals. Around 70 – 75 % teenagers overthink regularly – worrying about things that barely matter, stressing over future with minds stuck in a loop of ‘what – ifs’ and imagined failures. Overthinking and the thought of “what if I fail?”, is the first step towards downfall. This very thought of negativity is allowing the brain to stop paying attention to studies/career and drags them into unimaginable confusion.

Confusion comes from too many choices…

“Should I become an engineer, doctor, artist, or entrepreneur?” Too many paths lead to pressure, which sets off constant questioning and confusion. The line between what they like and what they want to chase in their life is blurred by this confusion.

In fact, some of them are not motivated to reach top spots. Only 6% say that their primary career goal is to reach steering positions. Teenagers today are not motivated enough to pursue what they want, even when they have access to reliable resources.

Living by Comparison…

Most youngsters are frequently comparing themselves with their friends or others and worrying whether they are being unproductive. It is a trap where everything seems figured out, but boom! The comparison either makes you feel you’re nothing or makes you overconfident – both of which are unhealthy.

Internal Pressure…

Pressures don’t just come from family or society, but from the expectations they impose on themselves – internally, and when they feel that they’re not up to the mark, it results in anxiety, leading to the question: “Who am I?”

Generation Z is competitive and focused…

But amidst the confusion and pressure, Generation Z is fiercely competitive and full of potential unlike before generations – even more than millennials. This generation is loaded with creativity, empathy and a deep desire to change the world. Overcoming the confusion and stress will open doors for Gen Z to focus and shape their own path to success.

They adapt quickly to social awareness, and technology (After all, Generation Z is all about tech). Their strength lies in this awareness and once they realize it, they become open to endless opportunities.
With appropriate guidance and self-reflection, Gen Z can transform the challenges into clarity.