Everyone of us who walks the pathway of parenthood once questioned what was up with our parent’s generation. Now, we’ve realized that we’re often out of step with the generation we’ve given birth to. 12 Tasks is designed to help build some significant bridges across generations.
Tim Elmore, and others who are focused on Generation Z, have identified some of the things we should be aware of when we’re setting up tasks and identifying potential bridges.
This generation has grown up in a new normal. They’ve dealt with terrorism, a recession and now the pandemic. They live in an on-demand world where they fight boredom with screen time. They have Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Tik Tok, Instagram, Crave and a dozen other options to numb their minds.
Psychological studies have shown that children who grow up in stressful environments with strict parents are more likely to develop the habit of over thinking as adults. Many of us are strict for one purpose – to protect our children. Don’t be overly surprised if you or your child find yourself overthinking what may be an important tool in your relationship building.
Generation Z is more multi-cultural than ever before. The world has come together to embrace diversity and equality in most places where they are living. They are woke and invested in change. Google, Alexa and Siri are at their beck and call for answers to any questions once fielded by parents.
The upcoming young minds insist on quick responses from their social media, games, or friends. When they start looking for employment options, they will be expecting the same. This group is always connected with very little time for meditation or silence.
Blended families are becoming the norm and this will add other dynamics to the 12 Tasks as parents discern who takes the lead in relationship building and support. New definitions for family, identity and sexuality are stretching the concept of what conversations can and should be had. Now, everything is being questioned and considered including traditional morals and values.
This is the most anxious generation in our country’s history with mental health issues skyrocketing to the forefront. The social and emotional development of our emerging teens needs oversight and support. This is one value of the 12 Tasks.
Elmore says, “It is our job to connect with them, not control them, and guide them into self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship management, as well as responsible decision-making. In addition to those EQ qualities, they’ll have to learn how to effectively leverage their screens for healthy change and growth.”
We invite you to share our website and 12 Tasks book with friends and family members you think might be helped.