Gen Zs are schooling older generations on how to make money from their hobbies, achieve a better work-life balance and even use an air fryer.
A survey of 2,000 Brits has revealed the unexpected lessons Millennials and Boomers have picked up from their younger counterparts. According to the survey, more than three quarters (77%) of adults over the age of 28 have been influenced by Gen Zers, including learning about how to say ‘no’ without feeling guilty, how to talk openly about mental health and how to embrace body positivity.
The study commissioned by Leo UK for its annual PopPulse report shows on average, advice is shared once a week and suggests that wisdom is now flowing in all directions, not just from the top down.
It also found the 13–28 year olds have imparted wisdom on financial matters, such as investing through apps and setting up a side hustle. Some 15% have even asked a youngster for advice on where to go on a first date.
Lilli English, chief strategy officer for Leo UK, said: “We set out to understand Gen Z’s influence – and ended up rethinking it completely.
“The research shows they’re not the detached, digital bubble they’re so often made out to be, but the ones quietly keeping things together – connecting families, keeping friendships afloat, finding balance in the mess.
“They’re helping the nation adapt to the chaos of modern life in small, human ways, a far richer story than the tired generational divide we keep hearing about.”
The study also revealed that 72% of Gen Zs believe the world would be a better place if their generation was listened to more.
And 77% reckon different age groups have more in common than they think.
Likewise, nine out of 10 (93%) of those surveyed via OnePoll believe every generation should be open to learning from each other.
Of those who take advice from the younger group, 35% see it as a positive because youngsters bring fresh perspectives.
Others believe wisdom isn’t only tied to age and everyone has something to offer (27%), while 25% said the energy and enthusiasm of young people can be inspiring (25%).
TOP 20 THINGS OLDER ADULTS HAVE BEEN SHOWN BY GEN Z:
- How to use TikTok
- How to take better selfies
- How to use emojis correctly
- How to use slang like “rizz” and “delulu”
- How to create a meme
- How to say “no” without guilt
- How to live in the moment
- How to do a skincare routine
- How to use an air fryer
- How to dance
- How to invest via apps
- How to create a side hustle
- How to monetise hobbies
- How to use pronouns respectfully
- How to be more inclusive
- How to open up about mental health
- How to be more eco-conscious
- How to embrace individuality
- How to embrace body positivity
- How to improve work-life balance
