Every generation faces its battles, but for Generation Z, life comes with unique challenges. Caught in a web of digital influence, economic instability, and shifting societal expectations, Gen Z often feels like they are running a race where the finish line keeps moving. I get it—life wasn’t supposed to feel this heavy so early on.
When the World is a Highlight Reel
For Gen Z, the pressure to succeed often begins with their phones. With just a few taps, they are transported to a world of seemingly perfect lives: friends driving luxury cars, earning five-figure monthly salaries, and spending on designer products with cash.
If it were you, wouldn’t you feel stressed?
This constant exposure creates a vicious cycle of comparison. While past generations may have compared themselves to a neighbor or colleague, Gen Z compares themselves to influencers, celebrities, and peers—often unaware that what they see is a curated highlight reel. It’s not impatience; it’s an unyielding reminder of the gap between their reality and what they aspire to.
Economic Challenges: The Cost of Modern Living
The weakening value of the ringgit, coupled with soaring living expenses, has made it nearly impossible for young adults to thrive on typical starting salaries of RM1,500 to RM1,800. From rent to groceries, living costs eat away at their earnings, leaving little room for savings or personal enjoyment.
In the past, owning a mobile phone or driving a Proton was seen as a luxury. Today, these are considered necessities, not just for convenience but to meet societal and professional expectations. If you drive a modest local car to work, will colleagues and employers respect your credibility? Society’s standards have shifted, and so have the tools needed to play the game.
Changing the Rules of Success
Hard work used to be the ultimate key to success. Our parents often tell stories of how they started with nothing and made something of themselves. While their advice—"Endure hardship, and you'll succeed"—came from a good place, it doesn’t align with the realities of today's workforce.
High academic qualifications and technical skills are often prerequisites for decent jobs, and some of these roles are being replaced by automation. This isn’t a lack of willingness from Gen Z; it’s a system that demands more while offering less in return.
Carrying Emotional Weight
On top of economic struggles, Gen Z is often burdened by familial and societal expectations. Comparisons like “Why can’t you be like so-and-so who’s earning a lot?” or “Back in my day, we worked tirelessly to provide for you!” can feel dismissive of the very different challenges this generation faces.
For many, the result is burnout, anxiety, and an overwhelming feeling of being stuck in a cycle where every effort feels inadequate.
Redefining the Rules
Despite the overwhelming pressure, Gen Z is determined to succeed—not in the traditional sense but on their own terms. They are questioning outdated societal norms and carving paths that align with their values and aspirations.
To Gen Z: A Message of Resilience
Every generation has its struggles, and this is yours to bear. The game rules may have changed, but so can your approach. While the road feels challenging, remember this: Your ability to adapt, innovate, and persevere is unmatched.
Live fully, love the journey, and redefine what it means to be successful. And when you’ve made it, let the struggles remind you of how far you’ve come. The crown may be heavy, but you’re more than ready to wear it.
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Felicia Yoan is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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