Your Generation Is So Entitled

“Your generation is so entitled.” this is a statement we often hear about Gen Z.

It’s no secret that Gen Z has been the subject of criticism for their supposed entitlement. From avocado toast to participation trophies, there’s no shortage of opinions about what this generation is doing wrong. However, when we take a closer look at some of the movements that have emerged from this generation, we can see that they are not just focused on self-indulgence, but rather on fixing toxic patterns created by previous generations.

Gen Z Movements

Quiet Quitting

One such movement is quiet quitting, which is “…where you’re not outright quitting your job but you’re quitting the idea of going above and beyond. You’re still performing your duties, but you’re no longer subscribing to the hustle-culture mentality that work has to be your life.” This idea has been considered lazy by many, but others applaud the courage demonstrated in standing up to toxic work environments, the hustle mindset, and burnout. Wasting the prime of your life to grow in a role you’re not passionate about and being run over by your boss, is a thing of the past.

Many people view quiet quitting as a way to prioritize their mental health and well-being. The hustle culture mentality that work has to be your life can be incredibly damaging, and it’s important to recognize that there is more to life than just your job. The pandemic has only further highlighted the importance of work-life balance, as many people have been forced to work from home and have struggled with the blurred lines between work and personal time. Quiet quitting is a way to take control of your own life and prioritize your own happiness, rather than feeling trapped in a job that is making you miserable. While it may be seen as lazy or entitled by some, it’s important to recognize that quiet quitting is a response to a toxic work culture that values productivity over well-being.

Social Injustice

Similarly, Gen Z has been vocal about social injustice and has been at the forefront of movements such as Black Lives Matter and climate activism. These movements are not about entitlement, but rather about demanding accountability from those in power and fighting for a more just and equitable society. These movements are about acknowledging the systemic issues that have been perpetuated for generations and taking action to create change.

Gen Z is showing that they are not willing to accept the status quo and are committed to creating a better future for themselves and future generations. These movements are not just about demanding accountability from those in power, but also about creating a culture of empathy and compassion, where individuals can connect with each other and work together towards a common goal. The impact of these movements is already being felt, with changes being made at the policy level, in corporate practices, and public attitudes towards issues such as race and the environment. This shows that the efforts of Gen Z are not entitled, but rather are necessary to create a better future for all.

Cutting Ties

Another movement that has emerged from Gen Z is cutting toxic ties, which involves ending relationships with family members or friends who are toxic or harmful. This can be a difficult decision to make, but it’s important to recognize that toxic relationships can have a significant impact on mental health and overall well-being. Cutting toxic ties can be seen as a response to the toxic patterns that have been normalized in previous generations, such as staying in relationships out of a sense of obligation or loyalty, even if they are harmful.

In the past, many people were expected to maintain relationships with family members or friends, even if they were toxic or harmful simply because of societal expectations or obligations. However, this often led to emotional abuse or trauma, and could have lasting impacts on mental health and well-being. By cutting toxic ties, individuals are creating a culture that prioritizes healthy relationships and boundaries, where people are not expected to endure emotional abuse or trauma for the sake of societal expectations. This movement also encourages people to build relationships that are based on mutual respect, care, and support, rather than obligation or loyalty alone. By creating these healthy relationships, individuals can experience a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment in their lives and can be better equipped to deal with the challenges that come their way.

Are These Actions Entitled?

So, are these movements entitled? No. They are a response to the entitlement that has been normalized in previous generations. Previous generations may have viewed job security, a stable climate, and healthy relationships as entitlements, but Gen Z has recognized that these things are not guaranteed and are actively fighting to create a better future for themselves and future generations.

It’s also important to note that these movements are not just about fixing the problems of previous generations, but also about creating a better future for everyone. For example, fighting for a stable climate is not just about fixing the damage that has already been done, but also about ensuring that future generations have a habitable planet to live on. Cutting toxic ties is not just about ending harmful relationships, but also about creating a culture of healthy relationships and boundaries. These behaviors should be encouraged.

The movements that have emerged from Gen Z are not entitled, but rather a response to the toxic patterns and entitlement that have been normalized in previous generations. These movements are about prioritizing mental health and well-being, demanding accountability from those in power, and creating a better future for everyone. By understanding the motivations behind these movements, we can work towards a more just and equitable society for all.

Lastly, I hate to say it, but… if you’re bothered by people setting boundaries, or if you believe everyone has to act in the ways you have and believe to be right, you might be entitled. And, if you don’t see the value in creating greater living conditions for everyone or that we all win when we work toward the greater good; I love you, but you’re ignorant.