15 Beliefs Gen Z Has That Everyone Thinks Are Obnoxious

15 Beliefs Gen Z Has That Everyone Thinks Are Obnoxious

The beliefs and values of Gen Z, in particular, can sometimes rub other generations the wrong way. Whether it’s their approach to technology, their views on work-life balance, or their commitment to social justice, there’s a lot that leaves people scratching their heads—or rolling their eyes. Here, we’ve put together a list of 15 beliefs that Gen Z holds dear but that others often find downright annoying.

1. Cancel Culture Is A Necessary Tool

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In the eyes of Gen Z, cancel culture is a grassroots attempt to hold people accountable, according to The Emancipator. They see it as a means to address wrongs and demand better behavior from public figures. While the intention is to promote accountability and foster positive change, the execution can sometimes feel like a digital witch hunt. This belief in the power of cancel culture can be polarizing, as some view it as a crucial tool for social justice, while others see it as unforgiving and harsh.

Gen Z argues that calling out harmful behavior is essential for progress, but the lines between accountability and bullying can blur. The belief that people should face consequences for their actions is one they hold firmly, yet not everyone agrees that social media should act as judge and jury. While their dedication to justice is admirable, the fast-paced and often merciless nature of cancel culture can be difficult to navigate—especially for those who see redemption as a possibility.

2. Sustainability Is Non-Negotiable

Gen Z is all about saving the planet, and they don’t shy away from saying so—loudly. They’re the generation that brought back metal straws and made reusable shopping bags trendy. While there’s no denying that saving the environment is crucial, telling your grandma that she’s killing turtles with her plastic straw might not always go over well. Meanwhile, the refusal to shop from any brand that isn’t eco-friendly can be seen as either a noble stand or an exhausting endeavor, depending on who you ask. To be fair, their commitment to sustainability is commendable, but their all-or-nothing attitude can sometimes feel a bit much for those not ready to give up their convenience.

But for Gen Z, it’s about more than just recycling—it’s a mindset. As reported by Beauty Packaging, nearly 60% of Gen Z and Millennial shoppers say they have stopped buying brands that don’t have—or don’t effectively communicate—environmental credentials. They’re the ones questioning the ethics of fast fashion and advocating for a zero-waste lifestyle. And while their dedication to green living is admirable, it can sometimes come across as holier-than-thou. For some, it feels like being lectured by a teenager who just discovered Earth Day. Still, their passion is undeniable, even if you don’t appreciate being told your favorite brand is destroying the planet faster than you can say “Buy one, get one free.”

3. Social Media Is An Authentic Extension Of Self

woman laying in bed texting

For Gen Z, social media is more than just a platform—it’s an extension of who they are. Instagram grids, Snapchat streaks, and TikTok trends aren’t just hobbies; they’re serious business. The idea that your online presence should reflect your real identity is a belief they hold dear, and they’re more than willing to document every meal, mood, and moment. According to a report by EY, authenticity is the most important value for Gen Z. While this level of openness is impressive, it can also be overwhelming for those who value a bit more privacy or see social media as a highlight reel rather than an all-access pass.

However, Gen Z’s approach to social media is also about authenticity. They push back against the perfectly curated images of the past, opting to share their real-life struggles and triumphs instead. This can be liberating, but not everyone wants to see a makeup-free selfie every morning or hear about your latest existential crisis. While their raw honesty is a breath of fresh air, it can sometimes feel like too much information for those who prefer to keep some things offline.

4. Work-Life Balance Is A Right, Not A Privilege

For Gen Z, the idea of living to work is as outdated as dial-up internet. They’re challenging the traditional 9-to-5 grind—Forbes reports that Gen-Zers desire flexible and remote work arrangements, and demand a higher quality of life with a solid work-life balance and priority on mental health. Their stance is that time for personal interests and relaxation is not just nice to have, it’s a non-negotiable right. While this belief is pushing for positive change in the workplace, some find their demands unrealistic or entitled, especially those who have spent decades climbing the corporate ladder.0

Yet, the passion Gen Z has for balancing their personal and professional lives is more than just a trend. They’re advocating for flexibility, remote work options, and mental health support, and they’re not willing to settle for less. This belief can be empowering, but it can also frustrate those who don’t have the luxury to negotiate their work conditions. Regardless, their determination to live life on their own terms is a force to be reckoned with, even if it does ruffle a few feathers along the way.

5. Traditional Career Paths Are Obsolete

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Forbes notes that Gen Z is expanding rapidly as the fastest-growing generation in the workforce, redefining job expectations and forcing employers to adapt. Gone are the days of sticking with one job until retirement. They view traditional career paths as outdated and are forging their own way with side hustles and freelance gigs. This belief that careers should be fluid and adaptable is reshaping the job market, but it can also be disconcerting for those who value stability and long-term planning. Their approach to work is innovative, but it can also come across as flighty to those who prefer a more steady career trajectory.

For Gen Z, the idea of working a single job for decades isn’t appealing. While their approach is modern and flexible, it can also appear unreliable or short-sighted to those who prioritize security. Yet, their belief in creating a career that suits their lifestyle is a testament to their adaptability and willingness to redefine success on their own terms.

6. Privacy Is Dead, And That’s Okay

For Gen Z, sharing is caring—and that includes their personal lives. They’ve grown up in an era where privacy feels more like a suggestion than a rule, and they’re okay with that. The belief that their lives should be open books is a stark contrast to older generations who guard their privacy closely. While their openness can be refreshing, it can also be jarring for those who aren’t accustomed to broadcasting their entire lives online.

But, Gen Z’s comfort with sharing isn’t just about selfies and status updates. They see transparency as a way to foster connection and authenticity, breaking down barriers that keep people apart. While some might view this as oversharing, Gen Z sees it as building a community. Their willingness to put it all out there can be both inspiring and intimidating, depending on your perspective on privacy in the digital age.

7. Mental Health Is A Top Priority

While older generations might have kept their struggles to themselves, Gen Z is putting mental health front and center. They’re the ones openly discussing anxiety, depression, and therapy on TikTok, and they’re not shy about it. For them, mental wellness is as crucial as physical health, and they’re demanding that workplaces and schools take it seriously. This belief that mental health should be prioritized is a refreshing change, but not everyone is thrilled to hear about their “mental health day” during a crunch at work.

For Gen Z, destigmatizing mental health is about creating a culture of acceptance and support. They encourage talking about feelings rather than bottling them up, and while this is a step forward, it can sometimes feel like oversharing. One person’s vulnerability is another’s “TMI,” and navigating this new openness can be challenging for those accustomed to keeping personal issues private. Yet, Gen Z’s emphasis on mental health is a major cultural shift, one that, despite its occasional discomfort, is likely here to stay.

8. Advocacy And Activism Are Everyday Activities

For Gen Z, being a bystander is not an option. They’re a generation of activists, taking to the streets and social media to fight for what they believe in. Whether it’s climate change, racial justice, or LGBTQ+ rights, they don’t just talk the talk—they walk the walk. While their passion for change is commendable, it can also be seen as overwhelming or preachy to those who aren’t as politically inclined or who prefer their activism in moderation.

Their belief in everyday activism extends beyond protests and petitions. For Gen Z, it’s about integrating advocacy into daily life, from the brands they support to the media they consume. This unwavering commitment can come off as intense or even exhausting to those who just want to enjoy their latte without thinking about its carbon footprint. While their fervor can feel like overkill, it’s also inspiring a new wave of socially conscious consumers and citizens who refuse to stay silent.

9. Diversity And Inclusion Are Non-Negotiables

A multiracial group of volunteers wearing warm casual clothing and accessories on a sunny cold winters day. They are talking before they start working on a community farm, planting trees and performing other tasks.

For Gen Z, diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords; they’re foundational principles. They demand representation in media, politics, and the workplace, and they’re not shy about calling out companies and institutions that fall short. This belief in the importance of diversity is helping to drive significant change, but it can also feel like an impossible standard for those struggling to keep up with evolving expectations. While their commitment is reshaping industries, it can also leave others feeling like they’re walking on eggshells.

Their push for diversity is about creating spaces where everyone feels seen and heard. Yet, the pressure to get it right can be intense for those who are still learning about the nuances of inclusivity. While Gen Z’s belief in a more equitable world is inspiring, the rapid pace at which they expect change can be daunting. Their unwavering demand for representation is a powerful force, even if it does leave some feeling a bit overwhelmed.

10. Personal Branding Is Essential

In the world of Gen Z, everyone is their own brand manager. They believe that cultivating a personal brand is essential for standing out in a crowded digital landscape. This belief is shaping how they approach everything from social media to job applications, but it can also feel like pressure to those who aren’t interested in self-marketing. While their focus on personal branding is strategic, it can also come across as self-absorbed to those who value humility over hype.

For Gen Z, a personal brand is about more than just online aesthetics—it’s about conveying values and aspirations. They see it as an opportunity to craft a narrative and establish a unique identity. While some might find this idea empowering, others see it as exhausting, feeling like they’re always “on.” Regardless, Gen Z’s belief in the power of personal branding is redefining how we present ourselves to the world, one curated post at a time.

11. Sharing Passwords Is A Love Language

Sharing passwords isn’t just convenient—it’s an expression of trust and love. They see it as a way to strengthen relationships, whether it’s sharing a Netflix account with a friend or a Spotify playlist with a partner. This belief that passwords should be communal can be both endearing and irritating for those who value personal boundaries. While their approach fosters closeness, it can also lead to awkward situations when the relationship changes or ends.

Yet, Gen Z sees sharing passwords as part of their digital native lifestyle. It’s about creating shared experiences and a sense of belonging in the vast world of streaming services and online platforms. While some might cringe at the thought of divulging such personal information, Gen Z embraces it as a modern form of intimacy. Their willingness to blur the lines between personal and shared can be both charming and challenging, depending on where you stand on digital boundaries.

12. Traditional Media Is Irrelevant

Traditional media is as outdated as a rotary phone. They prioritize digital content and social media influencers over newspapers and television news. This belief that traditional media is irrelevant is reshaping how information is consumed, but it can also frustrate those who value established news sources. While their preference for digital media is understandable, it can sometimes feel dismissive to those who appreciate the depth and rigor of traditional journalism.

Gen Z’s media habits reflect their need for immediacy and personalization. They gravitate towards platforms where they can curate their content and engage with creators directly. While this approach is innovative, it can also contribute to echo chambers and misinformation. That said, Gen Z’s belief in the power of digital media is transforming how we think about news and entertainment, for better or worse.

13. Influencers Are The New Celebrities

In the eyes of Gen Z, influencers are the celebrities of their time. They see social media stars as relatable and accessible, valuing their authenticity over traditional celebrity prestige. This belief that influencers hold the same—if not more—clout as A-list actors can be perplexing to those who grew up idolizing Hollywood legends. While their admiration for influencers is reshaping the entertainment industry, it can also feel superficial to those who question the substance behind the stardom.

For Gen Z, influencers represent a new kind of fame—one that’s built on personal connection and niche interests. They’re drawn to creators who share their values and speak their language, finding a sense of community in the process. While some might dismiss influencers as fleeting fads, Gen Z sees them as cultural trailblazers. Their belief in the power of influencer culture is redefining what it means to be famous in the digital age.

14. Traditional Education Might Not Be Worth It

A traditional college education might not be the golden ticket it once was. They question the value of degrees amidst rising tuition costs and student debt, opting instead for alternative learning paths. This belief that education should be flexible and accessible is reshaping how knowledge is acquired, but it can also concern those who see formal education as essential. While their approach is innovative, it can also be seen as risky by those who value traditional credentials.

Yet, Gen Z’s skepticism towards conventional education reflects broader changes in the job market. They prioritize skills and experience over diplomas, seeking out online courses and vocational training. While this mindset is pragmatic, it can also leave them navigating uncharted waters without a safety net. Regardless, their belief in redefining education is challenging institutions to adapt and evolve, even as it raises questions about the future of learning.

15. Gaming Is A Legitimate Career

emotional cheating friendshipYoung African American couple playing video games at home and having fun.

Gaming isn’t just a hobby—it’s a viable career path. They see esports and streaming as legitimate professions, challenging the notion that video games are a waste of time. This belief in the potential of gaming is creating new opportunities and industries, but it can also seem unrealistic to those who grew up with more conventional career aspirations. While their passion for gaming is opening doors, it can also be met with skepticism from those who question its sustainability.

Yet, Gen Z’s embrace of gaming careers reflects their broader view of work and play. They see gaming as a way to combine passion with profit, breaking free from traditional job constraints. While this belief might seem unconventional, it’s also driving innovation and creativity. Gen Z’s conviction that gaming is a legitimate career is a testament to their willingness to challenge norms and carve out new paths in the digital age.

Natasha is a seasoned lifestyle journalist and editor based in New York City. Originally from Sydney, during a a stellar two-decade career, she has reported on the latest lifestyle news and trends for major media brands including Elle and Grazia. Natasha now writes and directs content for Bolde Media, publishers of Bolde, Star Candy, Style Files, Psych Love and Earth Animals.