Image shows a young woman on her phone in an office space [Gen Z]

Lucy Matthews

In an interview with The Guardian, Generation Z was recently put on blast by actress Jodie Foster, who labelled them annoying to work with and described the overall attitude of those born between the mid-90s and early 2010 as “difficult to understand.”

This isn’t the first time Generation Z have felt the wrath of the previous generations before them. They are frequently caught in cross-fires between boomers, millennials and Generation X, who find Gen Z’s supposedly upfront yet equally laid-back attitude baffling.

Foster’s remarks initiated a cascade of negative responses, leading to a collective online exchange of negative experiences with the generation. These comments portrayed Gen Z as lazy, unproductive, and rude individuals.

Considering this generation entered the world during environmental devastation, political polarisation and economic turmoil – is it an unfair trial for the children of the digital age? Or has social media allowed them to feel unstoppable?

Gen Z and Mental Health

One thing is certain: Gen Z has kickstarted invaluable conversations around mental health.

Instead of being brushed off as something that shouldn’t be discussed publicly or privately, they have put work-life balance at the forefront of the nine-to-five. It’s now the norm for offices to provide puppy therapy sessions or mindfulness workshops.

Has making the workplace more enjoyable contributed to a laziness epidemic in the youth? Foster might think so, but at least Gen Z has found a way to insert enjoyment into their 9-5s. A more in-touch attitude with work burnout has created a safe space to unwind without feeling guilty asking for a day off.

“it comes as no surprise they are now wanting to make it as stress-free and enjoyable as possible”

The desire to make the working environment more bearable has also been disregarded by education during a pandemic. Many young people were having their first taste of the corporate world from their bedrooms, which continued as companies realised the productive potential of remote working. This was a stressful experience, so it’s no surprise they want to make it as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

Gen Z and Workplace Stress

Work can be stressful, especially as many Gen Z workers fear not being fully equipped before entering the workplace, an expectation that has left them anxious and stressed.

A study conducted by Deloitte discovered that 46 per cent of Generation Z felt anxious or stressed at work all or most of the time. This hindered their ability to self-start in the office, putting off tasks or refusing to seek help, fearing they would come across as ill-equipped for the job.

These are the kinds of factors that are overlooked when the younger generation enters the workforce. While previous generations may have faced similar challenges, Gen Z’s outspoken attitude ensures that their concerns are heard by individuals like Foster, who respond with contempt.

Some have argued that Gen Z has no reason to be stressed. However, considering the backdrop of economic uncertainty, environmental concerns, and political unrest that has marked their upbringing, it’s no surprise that members of Generation Z are grappling with stress-related issues.

The Impact of AI on Gen Z

When discussing the supposed laziness of Gen Z, it is crucial to consider the rise of AI.

Forbes recently analysed whether AI will make work easier when collaborating with employers or if it will reduce the need for employers to stop. Forbes argued that once AI has fulfilled its promise of “doing things more accurately and at a much faster rate than any human ever could,” there will be no practical or economic justifications for humans to continue involvement in different fields of work, despite the argument that when working alongside humans, AI will reduce costs.

While AI systems will not replace humans overnight, it is a demotivating prospect for the generation beginning to work alongside AI in the office. Although it is an exciting possibility and has the potential to bring about positive change, for those needing the work and wanting to break into certain industries, it is a scary consideration.

Rising above The Criticism

If one thing is for sure, Gen Z’s drive to make the world a better and fairer place is non-negotiable. Despite many branding them as “woke warriors,” it is undeniable that Gen Z has radically reshaped how companies hire and promote fairness in the office by actively fighting against discrimination.

Gen Z stands out due to their heightened political awareness. Each generation contributes a unique perspective in the workplace shaped by their life experiences, and Gen Z, in particular, has initiated vital conversations about navigating the constantly evolving digital era. As such, labelling Gen Z as lazy might be unjust when acknowledging their proactive stance in advocating for themselves and their peers amid the uncertainties of an unpredictable future.

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Featured image courtesy of Mariia Zakatiura on Unsplash. No changes were made to this image. Image license found here.

Hi! I am Lucy and I really enjoy writing funny, chatty pieces of writing. I am inspired by the likes of Byrony Gordon and Dolly Alderton- Their writing style is the best!

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