The oldest members of Gen Z are about to cross into their thirties-a milestone that is arriving with a mix of digital confidence, pandemic-shaped resilience, and evolving social ideals. Born into a world where smartphones were already in pockets, they’ve never known life without the internet. Their formative years were lived out on social media feeds, and their early adulthood was marked by lockdowns that reshaped careers, relationships, and even how they see themselves.
1. Growing up Fully Online
Being a “digital native” is not just a name for Gen Z it’s an identity that has become their real life. They have spent at least six hours a day on their phones in some parts of the world, be it working, shopping, dating, or activism. This connectedness has fostered a skill in curating an online identity with millimetric precision, but also one now associated with increased mental health challenges. Studies show that more social media use is associated with an increased risk of depression symptoms and body image concerns, especially among young women. Yet for many, these platforms remain essential places of connection, creativity, and community.
2. Pandemic-Era Adulthood
The COVID-19 years hit Gen Z at a pivotal stage interrupting college experiences, first jobs, and social milestones. Research reveals they were less resilient than older generations during the crisis, with lower scores on coping measures compared to Gen X. Yet, paradoxically, many found silver linings 32% now feel more comfortable meeting new people, and hobbies like journaling, fitness, and self-care routines became lasting habits. These changes suggest that while the pandemic heightened anxiety, it also prompted intentional self-development.
3. Political and Social Values
It’s impossible to characterise the politics of Gen Z. In Australia, even those who are considered right-leaning tend to hold progressive attitudes toward gender and the environment. Globally, young women are moving further left while men’s shift is at a more glacial pace, but both are more progressive than older generations when they were the same age. Education is important Gen Zs with tertiary education are decidedly more progressive. And this sense of inclusivity permeates from politics into consumption 73% want to buy from companies that are ethical, authentic, diverse, and sustainable.
4. Emotional Resilience and Mental Health
Gen Z reports the highest prevalence of mental illness among generations, driven by economic uncertainty, climate anxiety, and social media pressures. The pandemic increased feelings of loneliness-58% felt socially isolated-and eroded trust in institutions. Still, openness to change remains high, which is strongly linked with resilience. As experts say, developing in-person social support and creating safe digital spaces can help counteract the emotional toll of constant online engagement.
5. Delayed Milestones, Different Timelines
From driving licenses to first homes, Gen Z is hitting traditional markers later. In the U.S., “25 is the new 21” economically, with full-time work and financial independence often arriving mid-twenties. The slower pace is influenced by longer lifespans, cautious parenting, and an uneven job market. Far from apathy, this reflects strategic pacing balancing career preparation with mental health, and often prioritizing proximity to family over rapid independence.
6. Workplace Expectations
Gen Z enters the job market amid inflation, AI disruption, and fewer entry-level openings. They value flexibility-hybrid learning and job training resonates more with them than older generations-and want fair recognition for their work. Yet, many think pay does not equate to the quality of life, and distrust traditional career ladders dismantled in the past decades. In return, employers offering stability, transparency in communication, and opportunities for skill-building gain their trust.
7. Norms of Diversity and Inclusivity
Raised in a time where diversity is a given, Gen Z brings inclusivity into their personal and professional worlds. They opt for workplaces and communities that represent diverse backgrounds and identities. They are fast to call out tokenism. This mindset informs consumer choices, voting behavior, and social engagement the notion of inclusivity is not a value but a base-level expectation.
8. Navigating Social Media’s Double Edge
Social media is both lifeline and stressor while 74% feel more connected to the lives of friends on these platforms, nearly half say it hurts their sleep and productivity. Usage patterns are what make the difference moderate use, with a sense of purpose, tends to keep confidence high and support networking, while over-scrolling fuels comparison and anxiety. Creating boundaries-such as “loud budgeting” time offline-is a new self-care trend among younger users.
As Gen Z reaches their thirties, they bring together digital fluency, pandemic-shaped adaptability, and progressive values. Though their adulthoods may happen on different timelines, they are marked by intentional choices about work, relationships, and wellbeing that reflect the unique pressures and possibilities of their generation.
