We love Gen Z’s big hearts, big ideas, and big questions. But part of growing up is realizing that life isn’t always fair, fun, or filtered—and that’s okay.
Every generation thinks the one before it had it easier, and every generation thinks the one after it is a little too soft. Gen Z? They’re smart, tech-savvy, and socially aware—but sometimes, their idea of “unfair” is really just adulting… without the filters.
These 16 things might seem unfair to Gen Z—but are actually just part of normal, everyday life (like it or not).
1. Bills don’t care about your mental health day.
Unpacking the harsh truth: bills wait for no one’s mood. Living in the real world means grappling with the unyielding rhythm of due dates. Those electricity bills, rent notifications, and internet dues don’t pause for our mental health days. It’s like having a relentless dance partner stepping on your toes, yet you have to keep moving.
The stark reality of financial responsibilities might feel daunting, especially when you’re riding the waves of emotions. But understanding that these obligations are not personal attacks but just life’s ways can be liberating. Managing stress while ensuring payments are on time is a skill worth mastering.
With time, just like managing a tricky dance routine, handling bills with grace becomes second nature. It’s all part of adulting, learning, and growing.
2. You’re not going to love every job—and that’s normal.
Facing the reality that not every job is a passion project can be a slap of reality. It’s like realizing your dream vacation involves layovers. The job that pays your bills might not be the one that fuels your soul, and that’s okay. Think of it as a stepping stone, a phase in your career journey.
At times, work is just work. It’s not a failure if your current position doesn’t spark joy. The key is to learn from these experiences. Each role builds skills and resilience, shaping the future you.
Instead of waiting for the perfect job, embrace the learning process. You’ll find it enriches your path, making you appreciate when the dream job finally does come along. Until then, remember—every moment is a building block.
3. You have to make actual phone calls sometimes.
Ah, the dreaded phone call. For some, it’s as anxiety-inducing as watching a thriller. But adulthood occasionally demands more than a swift text or DM. Voicemails, real-time conversations, and the courage to dial a number are still in vogue.
While digital communication is convenient, there’s an authenticity in hearing a voice, even if it’s over the phone. The ability to converse directly can solve misunderstandings faster and build stronger connections.
Think of phone calls as an essential tool in your communication toolkit. It’s a skill, much like riding a bike, that improves with practice. You might stumble initially, but soon you’ll find that clear, direct dialogue has its own charm and effectiveness. Embrace it; it’s more human than you think.
4. Life is expensive—and you still have to show up.
The cold splash of adulthood often comes with a price tag. Realizing that expenses pile up quickly can feel like a relentless waterfall. Gas, groceries, and rent seem to gobble up your paycheck faster than you can say “budget.”
Yet, despite these financial pressures, life doesn’t pause. The world keeps spinning, and responsibilities demand attention. It’s a test of resilience, showing up and tackling daily tasks amidst monetary concerns.
Think of it as a rite of passage. Budgeting, saving, and prioritizing are the lifelines keeping you afloat. Over time, these challenges shape your financial acumen, turning every dollar into a lesson on value. Welcome to the thrilling ride of adult life, where your participation is a must, and the lessons are priceless.
5. Waiting your turn is still a thing.
Patience is no relic of the past. From DMV lines to those annoying buffering symbols, waiting is the silent teacher of life. It’s like nature’s way of saying, “Pause and breathe.” The world doesn’t always operate at lightning speed, and that’s okay.
The art of waiting teaches us to slow down, observe, and appreciate the moment. It’s an opportunity to practice mindfulness in the midst of anticipation. In a world obsessed with speed, patience becomes a rare virtue, a hidden gem.
So next time you’re stuck in line, remember that it’s more than just a delay. It’s a gentle reminder that not everything requires instant gratification. Embrace the pause, let it teach you, and who knows, maybe those moments of waiting are where the best ideas are born.
6. You won’t get applause for doing the bare minimum.
In a world where everyone craves validation, the harsh truth is that routine actions don’t always earn applause. Being punctual or polite is seen as basic decency, not award-worthy feats. It’s like expecting fireworks for making your bed.
Yet, there’s beauty in the ordinary. Doing what’s expected is part of being a responsible adult. The satisfaction comes from internal acknowledgment, knowing you’ve done your part. It’s the quiet pride of meeting responsibilities head-on.
Instead of seeking external approval, relish the fulfillment of self-reliance. The world doesn’t need to cheer, because you know you’ve stepped up. Embrace the quiet achievements, they’re the building blocks of character, silently crafting the person you’re proud to become.
7. People will disagree with you—and that’s not oppression.
Navigating disagreements can feel like walking on a tightrope of emotions. But confrontation isn’t a personal attack; it’s a dance of differing views. It’s like a colorful tapestry woven from unique threads, each with its own story to tell.
In the grand theater of life, disagreements shape your perspective, challenge your beliefs, and invite growth. They’re the spice that adds depth to conversations. Embrace them, not as barriers but as bridges to broader understanding.
Welcome differing opinions as opportunities to learn. Listen, converse, and maybe even find common ground. Disagreement isn’t a cage; it’s a door to richer, more nuanced conversations. So, wear it like armor, not shackles, and step boldly into dialogues that matter.
8. Criticism isn’t bullying.
In a world sensitive to negativity, criticism often feels like a storm cloud looming overhead. Yet, distinguishing feedback from bullying is essential. It’s like rain nourishing growth, not a flood to drown in.
Constructive criticism is a gift, a mirror reflecting areas for improvement. It’s the coach urging you to refine your skills, the mentor guiding your path. Embrace it with an open heart, recognizing its value in your journey.
Filter out the noise, and focus on the insights. Criticism isn’t an attack; it’s a tool for transformation. Approach it without fear, and you’ll find yourself evolving, becoming resilient and wiser with each piece of advice. Let it be the wind beneath your wings, not the chains on your spirit.
9. You still have to go to work even if Mercury is in retrograde.
Astrological events might seem daunting, but in the corporate world, productivity reigns supreme. Even when the stars misalign, your career demands your best effort. It’s like showing up to a game, rain or shine.
The workplace thrives on consistency, not celestial forecasts. While cosmic energies might influence moods, deadlines remain unaffected. It’s a dance of balancing the mystical with the practical.
So, when Mercury’s antics threaten your peace, ground yourself in reality. Harness the power within, and let it guide you through challenges. The universe might have plans, but your dedication determines your path. Keep moving forward, because your journey is written in actions, not stars.
10. Not everything is “trauma.”
In a culture eager to label every discomfort, the distinction between bad days and true trauma blurs. Not every setback is a deep wound; sometimes it’s just a day gone wrong. It’s like mistaking a drizzle for a storm.
Understanding the difference lightens the emotional load, allowing you to face challenges with clarity. Recognize moments for what they are: fleeting, not defining. It’s a practice in resilience, accepting the ebb and flow of experiences.
Acknowledge the struggle, but save the heavy labels for when they truly apply. Life’s ups and downs are part of the human tapestry, not always a crisis. Embrace the lessons, and let them guide you to a balanced perspective, where small waves don’t feel like tsunamis.
11. You don’t get to skip hard things just because they’re uncomfortable.
Growth is an awkward dance, often demanding you step out of your comfort zone. Life’s challenges aren’t hurdles to dodge but adventures to embrace. It’s like climbing a hill, where the view justifies the effort.
Difficulties mold character, teaching resilience and tenacity. They’re the chisels sculpting the masterpiece of your life. Avoiding discomfort only delays growth, leaving potential untapped.
So, lace up your shoes and face the climb. Confronting adversity head-on fosters courage, revealing new strengths. Remember, the path might be rocky, but every step is a victory. Lean into the challenge, and discover the extraordinary within the ordinary.
12. Your first job probably won’t be your dream job.
The journey to your dream career often begins in unexpected places. Your first job might not be a fairy tale, but it’s the first chapter of your story. Picture it as the humble beginning of a grand adventure.
These early roles aren’t failures; they’re stepping stones. They’re not about the prestige but the lessons hidden in the daily grind. Embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow, each experience adding to your repertoire.
Your dream job is the horizon you move towards, but be patient with the process. Every role enriches your path, bringing you closer to your aspirations. So, wear your beginner’s badge with pride, knowing it’s the start of something extraordinary.
13. No one likes chores. They just… do them.
Chores are the unsung heroes of daily life, quietly maintaining order amidst chaos. They’re the routine tasks that keep life running smoothly. It’s like the backstage crew ensuring the show goes on.
The appeal of chores isn’t in the act, but the outcome—a clean space, a fresh start. They’re not glamorous, but they’re necessary. Embrace them as the rhythm of life, grounding you in reality.
With each chore, you contribute to the balance of your environment. They’re not burdens but rituals of care, small efforts that bring comfort. So tackle them with a sense of purpose, knowing that they’re the little steps towards a harmonious home.
14. You can’t manifest your way out of responsibility.
Manifesting dreams is a powerful tool, but it doesn’t replace action. Responsibilities demand attention, whether you’ve visualized success or not. It’s like wishing on a star without looking at the map.
Life’s responsibilities are the scaffolding supporting your aspirations. They require dedication, not just desire. Tackling them with intention transforms dreams into reality.
Embrace both the vision and the work it demands. Set your intentions, but back them with concrete steps. Responsibility isn’t an obstacle; it’s the catalyst for achievement. So, plan, act, and let your commitment light the path to your dreams.
15. Being told “no” isn’t an attack on your identity.
Rejections can sting, but they’re not reflections of your worth. Being told “no” is part of life’s dialogue, not an attack on your identity. It’s like a detour sign guiding you to a new path.
Every “no” carries potential for growth and redirection. It teaches resilience, urging you to explore alternatives. A rejection isn’t a full stop; it’s a comma in your story.
With each setback, find the silver lining. Let it fuel your determination, strengthening your resolve. Remember, “no” isn’t personal; it’s a nudge towards opportunities yet to be discovered. Embrace it, learn from it, and let it propel you forward.
16. You won’t feel 100% fulfilled all the time.
Emotional fulfillment isn’t a constant, but a dance of highs and lows. It’s like the shifting seasons, each bringing its own beauty. Accepting this ebb and flow is part of embracing humanity.
Not every moment will be filled with joy, and that’s okay. Fulfillment is a journey, not a destination. It’s woven into the ordinary, in quiet moments of reflection.
Let life’s tapestry unfold, revealing its richness over time. Embrace the mix of emotions, knowing that they’re essential threads in your story. Allow them to guide you, understanding that fulfillment is an evolving masterpiece, not a final product.