Introduction: A Generation Under the Microscope 

Generation Z, defined by Pew Research as those born between 1997 and 2012, has been the subject of intense scrutiny. They are labeled as tech-addicted, work-averse, and overly sensitive—yet they are also hailed as resilient, innovative, and socially conscious.  

But what is the truth? Are they genuinely the unhappiest generation? Do they reject traditional employment, or are they simply redefining work and success? And despite the criticisms, could they be the most intelligent and forward-thinking generation yet?  

In this feature, we will explore these questions using statistical evidence, academic research, and expert insights, debunking myths while revealing what makes Gen Z one of the most transformative generations in history.  

 1. The Biggest Challenges Facing Gen Z   

Each generation faces unique struggles, but Gen Z’s challenges are shaped by digitalization, economic shifts, and social change. Research suggests that Gen Z experiences higher stress, mental health issues, and career instability than any previous generation.  

Mental Health Crisis: The Struggle for Well-Being

According to a 2022 report from the American Psychological Association (APA), Gen Z reports higher levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness than Millennials, Gen X, or Baby Boomers.  

- Forty-two percent of Gen Z adults have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, with anxiety (18 percent) and depression (23 percent) being the most common (APA, 2022).  

- The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 report labeled Gen Z’s mental health decline a public health crisis, citing social media, climate anxiety, and economic uncertainty as major stressors. 

 
- Seventy-three percent of Gen Z report feeling emotionally overwhelmed most of the time (McKinsey, 2023).  

A beautiful Gen Z girl. Forty-two percent of Gen Z adults have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, with anxiety (18 percent) and depression (23 percent) being the most common (APA, 2022). Image Source: PIXABAY

Despite these alarming figures, Gen Z has prioritized mental health more than any previous generation. They are more likely to seek therapy, openly discuss mental health, and demand workplace mental health policies, influencing corporate cultures worldwide.  

Financial Instability and Career Struggles 

Many Gen Zers entered the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to high unemployment rates, rising living costs, and a volatile job market. 

- Only 45 percent of Gen Z workers feel financially secure, compared to 64 percent of Millennials at the same age (Bank of America, 2023).  

- The cost of living has risen dramatically, with rent increasing by 29 percent between 2019 and 2023, disproportionately affecting young workers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).  

- A 2023 Deloitte survey found that 49 percent of Gen Z respondents have a side hustle to supplement their primary income.  

This generation is less willing to stay in toxic jobs or accept low wages, leading many to label them as "job-hoppers" or "entitled." However, their approach to work is not about laziness—it is about demanding fair pay, flexibility, and meaningful work.  

The Social Media Paradox: Hyperconnectivity vs. Isolation 

As the first digital-native generation, Gen Z is constantly connected—but this hyperconnectivity comes at a cost.  

- Fifty-nine percent of Gen Z say social media negatively affects their mental health (Harvard Business Review, 2023).  

- Eighty-one percent admit to comparing themselves to others online, leading to self-esteem issues (Pew Research, 2022).  

- TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are the most used platforms, influencing everything from political views to career aspirations (Statista, 2023). 

Social media influencer Tommy Cockram scrolling through Snapchat.Credit:Eddie Jim

While social media provides opportunities for activism, entrepreneurship, and education, it has also exacerbated anxiety, fear of missing out, and unrealistic self-image expectations.  

2. Does Gen Z Want to Work? Busting the Myth of "Lazy Zoomers" 

One of the biggest misconceptions about Gen Z is that they lack work ethic. In reality, they are redefining the traditional concept of work rather than rejecting it.  

Rejecting Traditional Employment Models 

Gen Z values flexibility, autonomy, and purpose-driven careers more than previous generations.  

- Seventy-one percent of Gen Z workers prefer remote or hybrid work (Microsoft’s 2023 Work Trends Index).  

- Fifty-nine percent are open to freelancing, and 36 percent already do (Upwork, 2023).  

- The gig economy has expanded by 30 percent in the past five years, driven largely by Gen Z participation (Statista, 2023).  

Instead of committing to rigid, nine-to-five corporate jobs, Gen Z is more likely to pursue entrepreneurship, engage in gig work, and seek ethical and inclusive workplaces, even if it means job-hopping.  

What They Expect from Employers 

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z expects companies to align with their values.  

- Sixty-eight percent will not work for a company that does not prioritize diversity and inclusion (Glassdoor, 2023).  

- Fifty-six percent prioritize mental health support in benefits packages (Harvard Business Review, 2023).  

- Eighty percent believe employers should take a stand on social issues (McKinsey, 2023).  

Rather than rejecting work, Gen Z is forcing employers to evolve, shifting toward flexibility, fair wages, and purpose-driven leadership.  

3.The Smartest Generation? How Gen Z Learns and Innovates   

Gen Z is the most educated and technologically skilled generation in history.  

 Academic Achievements 

- Gen Z college enrollment rates (62 percent) surpass Millennials (57 percent) and Gen X (52 percent) (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023).  

- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields have seen a 30 percent increase in Gen Z interest, particularly in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity (Forbes, 2023).  

 Self-Education and Digital Skills 

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z does not solely rely on traditional education. They leverage digital tools for self-education.  

- YouTube is Gen Z’s primary learning platform, with over 78 percent using it for self-improvement (Pew Research, 2023).  

- TikTok is now a major search engine for Gen Z, influencing financial literacy, career tips, and news consumption (Google Trends, 2023).  

This ability to adapt and self-educate makes Gen Z uniquely suited for the fast-paced, tech-driven future.  

4. Who Are the Most Influential Figures of Gen Z? 

Billie Eilish PHOTO CREDIT: Toast Press

Gen Z has already produced billionaires, activists, and cultural icons.  

- Billie Eilish – Grammy-winning musician and cultural voice.  

- Zendaya – Emmy-winning actress and fashion icon.  

- Greta Thunberg – Global climate activist.  

- Josh Richards – TikTok star turned entrepreneur. 

 
- Ryan Kaji – YouTube millionaire at age 11.  

Who Is the Wealthiest Gen Z Entrepreneur?

Kylie Jenner (on the cusp of Gen Z) remains the wealthiest self-made Gen Z billionaire, with a net worth of $750 million as of 2023, according to Forbes.  

 A Generation Reshaping the World

Gen Z is not lazy, entitled, or lost—they are adaptable, socially conscious, and redefining success.  

As they step into leadership roles, businesses, policymakers, and society must adapt to their digital-first, value-driven approach to life and work.  

Gen Z is not rejecting the world—they are rebuilding it.