Young People and Their Needs-Concerns of the Next Generation

 

The power of hope.

Young people today are living in a time of great uncertainty. New technologies are transforming what we once understood about work, communication, and society. The job market is changing, political polarization, and the cost of living continues to climb while wages grow seemingly slow and wealth becomes increasingly concentrated. A few things to think about.

These challenges are significant — but not insurmountable. This generation is among the most creative, motivated, and socially conscious in history. Where there are challenges, there are also opportunities for leadership. Empowering young leaders from within this generation can help guide us all through these changing times.

I empathize deeply with this younger generation. In many ways, the challenges they face will be harder than those faced by my generation or the one before us, which collectively accumulated much of today’s wealth. The generation before the Baby Boomers endured great hardship, yet they built the America we know today — earning them the title “The Greatest Generation.”

No one can truly claim to be an expert in understanding or connecting with younger generations. Everyone has an opinion, and some make more sense than others. To me, understanding this generation’s needs and aspirations is essential for shaping the policies and choices that will position them — and all of us — for a stronger future.

If each generation keeps the next in mind, we can find countless paths to progress. By focusing on our shared goals and the deeper purposes behind them, we preserve the values that sustain us across time. Many have sacrificed for those values in prior and current generations to give these kids a chance. Despite this they will face their own challenges for their time.

I found this reflection inspiring, and it made me think about how we might give this younger generation more voice and influence to set some of their own course. In some of my more philosophical moments, I’ve imagined ideas like a hypothetical “Feather Party” — a symbolic way of lightening and greasing the decision-making process. But perhaps they might have their own fresh ideas.

As you reflect on these thoughts, consider how the next generation might view them. Hearts and prayers to those who will lead us forward — soon to be another Grand Generation. We have high hopes for you.

The American dream feels impossible for many young voters, who see no political fix