Each generation has their own set of strengths and weaknesses that can be traced back to them. Somehow Generation Z, or our current generation,  has been linked to a larger list of weaknesses than past generations. What gives Generation Z its unfavorable image? Why do other generations get to decide that we are hopeless? How can Generation Z change its own image?

    First of all, there seems to be a mixed assortment of opinions concerning this generation. Many have speculated that we could have the power to change the world, but is that idea meant specifically for this era or just a general statement given at the start of every new generation, to give them encouragement to carry on to the next group of people, and the next after that?  Right now the majority of the masses, old and young, seem to lean towards the thought that this generation is lazy, conceited, careless, and narcissistic. While some of the contributors of Generation Z may be the perfect embodiment of this description, the other participants do not fit this illustration of character at all.

    People of the former decades sit back and place judgement on the current youth, which causes this reputation to form: a reputation of not being able to communicate, being nose down in our phones, being disrespectful, etc. Reputations are a serious matter, and because of the way that we handle ourselves in public, we come off this way and walk right into ridicule.

    Generation Z needs a new image, and a new perspective. Those of us who want to break from the crowd, change our paths, and turn the idea of changing the world into a possibility need to start now, before everyone else is set in their ways. Technology is not the most important thing in the world, social media likes do not actually mean anything, and who cares if you get your hands a little dirty and your hair a little ruffled up? No one is actually looking for perfection. No one is perfect and no generation is any better than the rest. If you think about it, our generation might be the most open-minded to change. Let’s make all of these changes positive, and set a better path for future generations than what was left for us. We can change our name. No longer do we have to be Generation Z. We can be anything we want to be, because we are the generation of change.

Check out this list of the different generation names and their years.

Also check out this awesome song by Catie Turner: (21st Century Machine)