The dominant generations of today are the Millennials (born in the years 1981 to 1996) and Gen Zs (1917 - 2012). These generations revolutionize everything that has to do with the future ... or so it seems.
So, what's in store for them for 2025?
With the rapidly changing landscape shaped by technological, social, and economic shifts, Millenials and Gen Zs have an upperhand, most specially that the modern technology and the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration was hatched and aggressively evolving in their time.
For Baby Boomers (1946 to 1964) and Gen Xs (1965 to 1980), we are in awe of the rapid shifts of Millenials, known as digital natives, and the GenZs who depend and thrive on AI and automated connectivity.
Can't Compare
It is not only cruel but also pointless to compare and say, "in our time ..." to the two generations. Me, included, we lived at a time when communication —via snail mail, face-to-face meet up, person-to-person dialogue— was of great value. Our generation look forward to best time to interact eye-to-eye with family and friends: over coffee or meals.
Now, everything could be done in a click and everyone is glued on mobile phones even in family get togethers. "If you have something to say or suggest, email me!" is a common reaction if we were to disrupt their screen focus.
Education and trainings could be done online such that their world becomes more digital-first, influencing personalized learning to entertainment.
Computational Creativity
This Christmastime, I was shocked to learn that even parties can be held "via zoom". Inevitably, social and cultural shifts have shaped up as the evolving norm. And they call this "computational creativity"!
Come again? Computational creativity is a term for "multidisciplinary endeavor" that transcends AI, cognitive psychology, philosophy, and the arts. Are these categorized under "critical thinking"? Nah! The computers are programmed to think for them.
Both generations look forward to by-the-second changes in the digital world. This, they term global connectivity and digital activism.
Leadership and Environment
Gen Zs consider themselves as leaders. They know almost everything ad therefore have the right to dominate and to lead the charge on redefining cultural standards around gender, identity, and inclusivity. They are not cowed to challenge traditional norms.
Millennials, on one hand, has been showing leadership in business, politics, and activism. Their influence in global conversations on social justice is overwhelming.
On the good side, Millenials are vocal about environmental and sustainability issues and advocate for green policies whether in the government and in business. They are seen to be taking on significant roles on these.
On this, as Gen Zs were raised in the era where "climate change" is a buzzword, they tend to demand instant actions on environmental crises. We see them promoting sustainable brands, pushing for green energy solutions, and foster legislative ecological changes.
Employment and Business
Most of them are not jobseekers. They tend to go freelancing or work remotely. They coined the term "gig economy" in this newly-evolved workplace setting: in the comfort of their room and behind their desk.
Focused on mental health and work-life balance, their career paths are fluid with flexible time and work arrangements. This allows them to pursue their passion and prioritize their work-field choices. Hence, their contribution becomes more significant to more creative industry infrastructure.
While formal education is paramount, getting employed after graduation is the least of their priorities. Financial independence and stability become a challenge. For them, entering the workforce environment at this time of not-to-stable economy for the country is not their thing.
As we see it, 2025 is a year when these generations are ready to face more global challenges by continuing to balance life with personal fulfillment in mind.
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