In our rapidly changing world, connecting with Generation Z can often feel like navigating uncharted waters. These young adults, born between 1997 and 2012, are growing up in a unique socio-cultural landscape shaped by technology, social media, and unprecedented global events.  As a result, understanding their feelings and emotions requires a thoughtful and empathetic approach….

Perhaps one of the most eye-opening results of the Young Life research into Generation Z surrounds their concept of self. Older generations have often assumed this generation is self-absorbed because of the type of content they put out on social media.  But today’s young people might argue they possess a larger world view than they’re…

In a world that craves authenticity more than ever, today’s teens and young adults want genuine connections with the adults in their lives. The rapid technological advancements and widespread use of social media have shaped these younger generations far more than their predecessors. But they have come to value sincerity and transparency above all else….

Generation Z is the most diverse generation yet, and it shows with their fresh, confident perspective on celebrating disabilities and standing up for those that have them.  The RELATE Project had a focus group of kids who have a variety of disabilities and special needs who discussed their challenges in feeling like they belong. Their…

Some age groups and even cultures romanticize change, while others seem to thwart it. But whether we dream of studying abroad or resist moving across town to a new neighborhood — of this we can be certain: change is inevitable. In my own country, as we enjoy spring and gear up for warmer months, nearly 40…

Stress is part of the human experience. The myriad of methods we choose to deal with it are as well. Music, digital distractions, relationships, physical activity, nature, pets — these and many more are popular coping mechanisms among Generation Z.  While none of these began with this generation, what is unique to Generation Z is…

Stress is unfortunately a normal and inevitable part of adolescence, but it might just be the worst it’s ever been for Generation Z. In The RELATE Project, we have found about a third of teens and young adults, particularly in the U.S. and the U.K., experience high levels of stress. This statistic is unsurprising considering…

There’s nothing quite like a cross-country road trip or a long hike in the woods to deepen a friendship. By the end of my 20s I’d driven across the United States seven times, with a mix of different friends along for each ride. We’d take turns choosing the music and make time for unique roadside…

Summertime in the South means countless hours splashing at the pool, the air smelling sweet with the scent of honeysuckles and gardenias, and lightning bugs waltzing around as the sky turns from dusk to dark.  It means the days are longer and warmer and bedtimes for my kids are later. We spend more time outside…

You’re not good enough. You’ll never be skinny enough. Strong enough. Pretty enough. Smart enough. Funny enough. You’ll never measure up to what the world needs of you. No one will notice the value you bring to this world. You’re not enough. These were all lies I believed at one point or another in my…

The oldest Generation Z was 10 years old when the first iPhone came out, becoming the first generation to be impacted by smartphones during their adolescent years. Generation Alpha was the first to hold tablets as toddlers. This has to have an impact that is different from every other generation … right? Yes, it does,…