Rethinking Relationships: Pragmatic Idealists in Love & Friendship

Many Gen Zers are focusing on building stable, meaningful relationships and expanding their social circles. They value brands that host in-person events for face-to-face connections and are exploring new dating apps that enhance digital conversations. Interestingly, this generation is also embracing a more traditional and pragmatic view of marriage, challenging their reputation as rule breakers.

Evolving Education & Work: Defining Career Curves

While 86% of Gen Zers globally want their work to positively influence society (Deloitte, 2024), early career stages and economic uncertainty are often leading them to prioritise stability over values. Viewing flexible schedules as non-negotiable, Gen Zers also demand swift career growth and competitive compensation from day one.

Financial Frameworks: Carefree Spenders Versus Underconsumption Advocates

Globally, Gen Z’s spending is expected to overtake that of the moneyed baby boomers by 2029, reaching $12tn in 2030 (Nielsen, 2024). Individually, however, many Gen Zers are fearful about their financial futures – leading some to mindful consumption, and others to reckless spending (as a coping mechanism).

The Wellbeing Imperative: Self-Care Experimentalists

Gen Zers are prepared to push the boundaries of self-care to safeguard their mental, physical and emotional health. From fitness raves to sleepmaxxing, they’re open to new (and unconventional) wellness-bolstering ideas and experiences. See also Gen Z Food & Drink Trends: 25/26 and Gen Z Fitness Trends: 24/25 for more youth-centred wellness insights.

The Leisure/Pleasure Quotient: Free Time Goes Offline

Whether joining social hiking groups, hanging out at malls or making new friends at supper clubs, Gen Z craves uplifting tangible activities that allow them to forge meaningful interpersonal relationships. This is important considering the copious amounts of time this generation spends online. For more, see Gen Z Leisure Trends 25/26.