Top 5 Life Challenges Confronting Gen Z

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Gen Z, or Generation Z, refers to individuals born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s. They have grown up in a time of rapid technological advancement, where the internet, social media, and digital devices have become integral to their daily life.

Despite their easy access to information and global connectivity, Gen Z faces several unique challenges that significantly impact their lives. The following are the top five challenges faced by Gen Z:

1. Mental health issues

Notifications on mobile phones, work deadlines, and family responsibilities contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress among Gen Z. According to Deloitte's data in March 2022, almost 46 percent of Gen Z individuals have reported work-related anxiety and stress. Additionally, issues in romantic relationships often prompt them to seek help from a therapist.

2. Changes in the Work Landscape

It must be acknowledged that the challenges confronted by the current generation differ from those of previous generations, and they should not be underestimated. Artificial intelligence (AI) and rapid digitalization continue to transform work processes across sectors like manufacturing, trade, and other service industries. 

As Indonesia approaches a demographic dividend in the next decade or two, it needs to implement adaptive programs focusing on developing the competencies of Gen Z as the future workforce.

3. Education and Skills Demands

Rapid technological developments continually shift the demand for skills. Traditional education may not always suffice to prepare young people for the dynamic job market. They need to develop new skills relevant to market needs, such as coding, data analysis, and critical thinking skills. Gen Z frequently seeks supplementary education through online courses, training programs, and practical work experience to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.

4. Economic Uncertainty

Gen Z faces significant economic challenges despite growing up in an era of rapid technological evolution. They are encountering a global economic recession and job market uncertainty, leading to concerns about job prospects after graduation and achieving financial stability. This has fueled anxiety about their financial future and motivated them to explore alternative career paths or innovate to create job opportunities.

5. Job Insecurity

Many Gen Z individuals experience stress due to career-related uncertainty, according to Alyssa Mancao, a psychotherapist from America. “While jobs are paying roughly the same as they did years ago, the cost of living has gone up, resulting in Gen Zs experiencing increased pressure to not only find a job that is economically beneficial but also mentally and emotionally fulfilling,” she explained.

SHARISYA KUSUMA RAHMANDA | YAYUK WIDIYARTI

Editor’s Choice: Nearly 10 Million Indonesian Gen Z Unemployed; Manpower Ministry Responds

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News