Every generation has its strengths, but certain skills that previous generations prioritised are becoming less common among Gen Z.
Obviously, tech-savviness and adaptability are some of their strong suits, but there are still some fundamental life skills that Gen Z often lacks, which will inevitably make life harder as they get older. Some of them might argue that these things aren’t important, but those of us who’ve been on the planet a big longer know they definitely are.
1. Basic financial literacy
It’s no surprise that many Gen Zers struggle with understanding basic financial principles like budgeting, saving, and investing. With so much focus on online shopping, influencers, and instant gratification, it’s easy to overlook things like managing money effectively. Without these skills, it’s harder to manage debt, save for the future, or even deal with unexpected expenses. Knowing how to track spending, create a budget, and understand interest rates might seem old-school, but it’s a must for financial stability down the line.
2. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively
Being great at texting, DMs, and online chats doesn’t always translate into strong in-person communication. Gen Z has grown up with instant messaging and social media, but face-to-face conversations — including things like eye contact, active listening, and expressing thoughts clearly — can sometimes be a struggle. These skills are necessary, not just for personal relationships but for success in the workplace. It’s all about creating deeper, more meaningful connections when talking to people in real life.
3. Conflict resolution
Source: Unsplash When things get heated, Gen Z tends to shy away from confrontation. Whether it’s ghosting someone or simply disengaging, they avoid dealing with conflict head-on. While it might seem like the easier way out, this habit only leads to unresolved tension and miscommunication. Being able to navigate disagreements calmly and constructively is a vital skill that helps keep relationships healthy, whether with friends, family, or colleagues.
4. Time management
Thanks to the constant distractions out there — from social media notifications to streaming services — many Gen Zers struggle to stay organised and prioritise effectively. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re bouncing between tasks, but learning how to manage time effectively is crucial. Without the ability to set realistic deadlines and avoid procrastination, stress levels can skyrocket. Developing habits like using planners, to-do lists, or even time-blocking methods can help them stay on track.
5. Networking skills
Gen Z has mastered the art of online networking, but real-life networking often requires a different set of skills. Building meaningful professional relationships, initiating conversations, and following up after meetings can be intimidating for some in this generation. While it’s easy to send a connection request or like someone’s post, making a lasting impression in person takes a lot more effort. These networking skills are key for career advancement and making genuine, long-term professional connections.
6. Critical thinking
With constant access to information at the touch of a button, Gen Z often relies on quick answers rather than taking the time to critically evaluate what they hear. In an age of misinformation and ever-changing news cycles, being able to question assumptions, consider different perspectives, and analyse situations deeply is more important than ever. Critical thinking isn’t just about problem-solving; it’s also about making informed decisions and being able to adapt to complex situations.
7. Cooking and meal planning
Takeaways, meal kits, and convenience foods have become the go-to for many Gen Zers, and while they’re convenient, they often miss the mark when it comes to nutrition and cost-efficiency. Many haven’t learned the basics of cooking from scratch or meal planning, which means they might not be getting the healthiest or most affordable options. Learning how to cook doesn’t just save money; it also empowers you to make healthier choices and feel more confident in the kitchen.
8. Basic home maintenance
Calling a plumber or handyman is easy, but when it comes to basic home repairs, many Gen Zers haven’t developed the necessary skills. Small issues, like fixing a leaky tap or unclogging a drain, can be expensive if you rely on professionals for every problem. Knowing how to handle basic home maintenance saves money and gives them a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency.
9. Patience and delayed gratification
We live in a time when everything is fast-paced. Whether it’s one-day delivery or instant streaming, the idea of waiting for something has all but vanished. For Gen Z, that sense of immediacy makes it harder to practice patience or delay gratification. It can impact their ability to work towards long-term goals, whether it’s saving for a big purchase or working through career development. Learning to wait for the rewards, rather than chasing instant results, is crucial for achieving success over time.
10. Resilience in the face of setbacks
While Gen Z is great at advocating for mental health and expressing their feelings, bouncing back from setbacks can still be a challenge. Whether it’s dealing with failure, rejection, or simply not achieving what they hoped, many struggle with resilience. But life is full of obstacles, and developing the ability to cope, learn from mistakes, and keep going is what builds long-term strength. Without resilience, it’s easy to get stuck when things don’t go as planned.
11. Adaptability to non-digital environments
Tech is fantastic, but it’s not the whole world. Gen Z is often so plugged into the digital space that they sometimes struggle when they’re faced with situations that require more offline skills. Whether it’s reading a physical map, writing something by hand, or simply having a conversation without a screen, adaptability is key. Life isn’t always going to be online, and being comfortable in offline settings is a must.
12. Professional etiquette
From email manners to understanding office dynamics, many in Gen Z enter the workforce without a full grasp of professional etiquette. Things like sending a casual email instead of a more formal one, or misunderstanding the professional norms of a workplace, can hinder career progress. Understanding how to navigate these situations properly helps make a strong, positive impression, setting them up for success.
13. Long-term planning
Sometimes it feels like Gen Z is more focused on living in the moment, but long-term planning is crucial for a stable and fulfilling life. Whether it’s setting career goals, planning for retirement, or simply budgeting for future events, learning to think ahead provides direction and security. Without these planning skills, it’s easy to get caught in the short-term rush and miss out on the bigger picture.
14. Basic social skills
While Gen Z is undoubtedly skilled at digital communication, face-to-face social skills are still vital. Whether it’s introducing themselves confidently, making small talk, or navigating those awkward silences, knowing how to engage in person is important for building strong relationships. These skills also come in handy in professional settings, where first impressions really count.
