It’s August 2025, and looking at the economic landscape today, it’s clear that different generations are experiencing the world of work with distinct anxieties and hopes. As someone who’s seen decades of technological and economic shifts, I find this generational divide particularly fascinating and important to understand.
We often hear about Gen Z’s struggles, with reports indicating higher rates of depression and isolation. While the causes are complex and multifaceted, there’s a strong argument to be made that economic uncertainty plays a significant role. This generation entered the workforce during a period of rapid technological change, facing job markets that feel increasingly precarious. Automation, the rise of the gig economy, and the sheer cost of living – especially for housing and education – create a unique set of pressures. It’s easy to feel isolated when the traditional paths to stability seem less clear.
For older generations, like my own, the economic anxieties might be different but are no less real. Concerns about retirement security, the rising costs of healthcare, and the impact of inflation on savings are often top of mind. We might have seen more traditional career paths, but the long-term economic outlook can still feel uncertain, especially as technology continues to reshape industries at an unprecedented pace. The fear of being left behind by technological advancements, or seeing hard-earned savings erode, is a tangible concern.
What does this mean for the future of work? It means we can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Policies and workplace cultures need to acknowledge these generational differences. For younger workers, this might mean a greater need for transparent career progression, skills development that adapts to new technologies, and perhaps even rethinking traditional benefit structures to provide more immediate security. For all workers, there’s a growing need for continuous learning and adaptability.
From my perspective, technology itself isn’t the sole driver of these economic anxieties. It’s how we integrate it into our society and economy. Are we creating systems that foster widespread well-being, or are we widening existing divides? The challenges faced by Gen Z, for instance, highlight a need for us to critically examine how our economic structures are supporting mental health and a sense of belonging. When people feel economically insecure and isolated, it impacts not just their personal lives but the broader societal fabric.
The key question is how we build a future of work that offers economic well-being for everyone, regardless of their generational experience. It requires thoughtful discussion, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on creating opportunities that are both accessible and sustainable. As technology continues its relentless march, ensuring that economic progress translates into genuine well-being for all generations should be our primary focus.