If someone in Gen Z tells you they’ve got it all figured out, they’re probably bluffing. If they say they haven’t faced any hardships, they’re likely stretching the truth.

Welcome to the real world, Generation Z.

It’s not that this generation is any less equipped than the predecessors. Heck, no! They’re arguably more prepared with all the technology and information at their disposal. But just like every generation before them, they too are learning some tough life lessons – the hard way.

I’ve observed 8 specific lessons that seem to be hitting Gen Z particularly hard.

This article is not about pointing fingers or making fun. It’s about understanding, learning and hopefully, making your journey a tad bit easier with a heads up on what’s coming.

So buckle up, grab a cup of coffee (or matcha… I know you guys love that!) and let’s dive right in!

1) The internet isn’t always your friend

The internet is a double-edged sword, especially for Generation Z.

Being digital natives, they’ve grown up with the world at their fingertips. They can access information, entertainment, and social connections in an instant. Pretty amazing, right?

But here’s where it gets tricky.

This online world also comes with a dark side – misinformation, cyberbullying and the constant pressure to present a ‘perfect’ life on social media. It’s an unseen yet immense burden that can lead to stress and anxiety.

Gen Z is learning the hard way that while the internet can be a tool for good, it can also be a source of distress if not handled with care. It’s a harsh lesson on the importance of digital literacy and mental health in the internet age.

And trust me, it’s not as easy as it sounds!

2) Adulting is tougher than it looks

Being an adult is not just about being able to vote, drink or drive – it’s a lot more complicated than that.

I remember when I first moved out of my parents’ house, ready to take on the world. I was excited and eager to live life on my own terms. Little did I know, a harsh reality check was just around the corner.

Bills, taxes, rent – these words quickly became a part of my everyday vocabulary. Let’s not even talk about cooking and doing the laundry! (Hint: Eating takeout and wearing unwashed clothes can only work for so long.)

What hit me hardest was the realization that I was responsible for my own life now. There was no safety net. If I made a mistake, I had to face the consequences on my own.

And that’s what Gen Z is grappling with now – the transition from the protected environment of their homes to the harsh realities of adulthood.

So, yes, adulting is tough – but you know what? It’s also a rite of passage and a journey that we all must embark on, sooner or later. And believe me, it does get easier with time.

3) Success doesn’t come overnight

In our fast-paced world where everything is just a click away, it’s easy to forget that real success demands time and effort. Gen Z, with its exposure to young influencers and entrepreneurs, often finds itself grappling with this harsh truth.

Consider the story of Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon. While we see him today as one of the richest men in the world, many are unaware that Amazon didn’t turn a profit for its first seven years. That’s right – seven years!

Gen Z is coming to understand that success is not instantaneous – it’s a slow and steady process. It requires patience, perseverance, and a whole lot of hard work.

So, while it’s great to have role models, it’s important to remember that their success stories didn’t happen overnight. They had their fair share of struggles and failures too.

4) Not everyone will like you

In a world where likes, shares, and followers are the new currency of popularity, it’s a tough pill to swallow that not everyone will like you. And that’s okay.

Gen Z is learning that it’s impossible to please everyone. No matter how kind, friendly or funny you are, there will always be someone who doesn’t resonate with you or your ideas.

It’s a harsh lesson, especially in the age of social media where negative comments can be public and hurtful. But it’s also a valuable one.

Understanding that it’s okay not to be liked by everyone is a step towards self-acceptance and authenticity. It’s about recognizing that your worth is not defined by others’ opinions of you, but by how you see yourself.

5) Failure is part of the journey

This is a tough one, but it’s something I’ve come to realize over the years – failure is not the end of the world, it’s just part of the journey.

I remember my first job out of college. I was thrilled and couldn’t wait to make my mark. But within a few months, I was let go due to company-wide layoffs. It was a crushing blow. I felt like a failure and questioned my abilities.

But as Gen Z is learning, failure isn’t a sign of incompetence but an opportunity for growth. It took me some time, but I realized that losing that job wasn’t a reflection of my skills or capabilities. It was just a bump in the road.

Failure can be incredibly painful, but it can also be enlightening. It teaches resilience, encourages self-reflection, and most importantly, it reminds us that we are human and it’s okay to make mistakes.

6) Comfort zones can be dangerous

We often hear about the importance of staying in our comfort zone, where things are familiar and safe. It’s where we feel at ease and unthreatened.

But here’s something Gen Z is starting to understand – comfort zones, while reassuring, can actually hold us back.

Staying in your comfort zone means avoiding risk and new experiences. It means sticking to what you know and never venturing out into the unknown. And while that might feel safe, it can also stifle growth and personal development.

It’s a harsh lesson but an important one. Yes, stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary and uncomfortable. But it’s also where you’ll learn the most about yourself and the world around you.

While comfort zones provide a sense of security, venturing beyond them is where real growth happens. And that’s a risk worth taking.

7) Money management is crucial

In a world of online shopping, contactless payments, and digital currencies, Gen Z is finding out the hard way that money management is a crucial life skill.

It’s not just about earning money; it’s about understanding how to save, budget, invest, and plan for the future. It’s about realizing that instant gratification can lead to long-term financial woes.

The allure of the latest gadgets, trendy clothes, and fancy vacations can be strong. But the ability to resist these temptions and manage one’s finances wisely is a lesson that Gen Z is grappling with.

Money management might seem like a mundane topic next to the excitement of living in the moment. But as Gen Z is learning, proper financial planning today can lead to a secure and comfortable future tomorrow.

8) Self-care is non-negotiable

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to forget about taking care of oneself. But Gen Z is learning that self-care is not just a trend, it’s non-negotiable.

It’s about recognizing when your body and mind need a break. It’s about understanding that it’s okay to say no sometimes, to set boundaries, and prioritize your own well-being.

In an age where burnout and stress are becoming increasingly common, this lesson is more important than ever. It’s about respecting and nurturing oneself – physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Remember, there’s only one you. Take care of yourself!

Embracing the journey

As we’ve explored these harsh life lessons, it’s crucial to remember that this journey of growth and self-discovery is unique to each individual.

Going through these experiences isn’t a sign of failure or incompetence. Rather, it’s a testament to Gen Z’s resilience and adaptability in the face of a rapidly changing world.

As the words of American author and motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar: “It’s not what happens to you that determines how far you will go in life; it is how you handle what happens to you.”

So yes, life can be tough, and these lessons can sting. But they also shape us, mold us and prepare us for the future. They make us stronger, wiser and more empathetic.

And ultimately, they remind us that it’s not just about the destination, but also about the journey. Here’s to embracing it with courage, curiosity and a whole lot of patience.