Of course, sweeping generalizations and lumping everyone of a certain age group into a stereotype is not always the best way to view things. With this delicate boundary in mind, it’s a reality that certain age groups will have a tendency towards distinct tastes and interests. But this doesn’t apply to everyone. There are always exceptions.
One of the key differences between Millennials and Gen Z is their relationship to themselves. Gen Z has a level of self-awareness where Millennials have a general attitude of self-centeredness.
As a whole, Generation Z are self-reliant realists. They’re innovative too. According to Public Relations Society of America, they are characteristics that have come from growing up alongside 9/11 and two recessions.
After experiencing their parents and older siblings struggle in the workforce, Generation Z learned to be independent and foster an entrepreneurial spirit. At the same time, the economic instability has led them to value predictability and structure.
Millennials on the other hand, are characterized as idealist, creative, entitled, and dependent.
When it comes to strictly defining Gen Z against Millennials, don’t get too obsessive about categorizing them.
Author Neil Howe describes, “the dividing line between Generation Z and Millennials as "tentative" saying, "you can’t be sure where history will someday draw a cohort dividing line until a generation fully comes of age".
Let’s see what the future holds for Gen Z and Millennials alike.
