Latest news with #JeanTwenge
Straits Times
4 days ago
- General
- Straits Times
‘Adulting 101': Canadian uni offers classes for Gen Zs to learn basic life skills
Swathes of Gen Z-ers are enrolling in 'Adulting 101' - a course designed to teach students day-to-day life skills. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION: PIXABAY Which is harder - coding an app from scratch or grocery shopping? Surprisingly, some Gen Zs might argue it's the latter. Gen Z, or Generation Z, refers to those born between 1997 and 2012 . While some are already full-fledged adults, many say t hey still lack essential life skills. To make up for this, the University of Waterloo, a top-ranked institution in Ontario, Canada, has launched 'Adulting 101' - a course designed to teach students day-to-day life skills. On the university's website, the course description reads: 'From managing your finances, grocery shopping, keeping your laundry whites... white, staying organised - there are a lot of important life skills you might have wished you learned sooner.' It is structured around three key areas: prioritising mental and physical well-being, adapting to new responsibilities, and fostering personal growth. There are no reports on the number of students who have enrolled in the course. 'I don't know how to change a tyre. I don't have a car at all. I don't know how to sew. I don't know how to do a lot of things, other than cooking,' Mr Aldhen Garcia confessed on The Current, a radio programme produced by Canadian news outlet CBC News. The freshman at Canada's Toronto Metropolitan University is among many in his generation who share the struggle of navigating adulthood. But why do young people these days need a crash course on what previous generations might deem common sense? According to experts , overprotective parents who are excessively involved in their children's lives may be partly to blame, reported American news outlet CBS News. Gen Zs are also living with their parents for longer periods, taking on lesser responsibilities as their parents manage the household. This prolong s their adolescence while delaying their development, researcher and psychology professor at San Diego State University Jean Twenge said on The Current. 'Kids are growing up less independent. They're less likely to learn how to do adult things as high school students. Then they get to university, and they still don't know,' she said. Her sentiments were echoed by netizens worldwide. Commenting on CBS' TikTok account, one said: 'If someone is 20 and can't do laundry, personally, I blame it on the parents.' Beyond household chores, financial literacy is also a major concern for many in that generation, and one of the key skills they hope to gain by enrolling in the course. 'Within the school curriculum, I think it is so important that children are taught financial literacy. A lot of stuff involves money,' Mr Garcia said. While some praised the students for recognising their shortcomings and taking steps to improve, others were quick to point out that these skills should be taught earlier on in home economics classes. 'We learned how to sew, cook, use tools and other stuff in school. It is sad they took those classes away,' one user commented. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
New York Post
26-05-2025
- Business
- New York Post
Most employees would invite family or a friend on a work trip — and not tell their boss, new survey reveals
Have you ever had a business trip stowaway? As it turns out, most employees would invite family or a friend on a work trip — and not even tell their boss about it. A new YouGov survey commissioned by upscale hotel chain Crowne Plaza reveals that 74% of employees would invite a family member or friend on a work trip — and nearly one in five admit they've already done so without telling their employer, Business Insider reported. Advertisement 3 While many people can bring a loved one on a work trip, most wouldn't tell their boss. Davide Angelini – It's all part of a growing trend called 'blended travel' or 'bleisure,' in which business travelers mix work with leisure by adding personal time or bringing loved ones along for the ride. It's especially appealing to Gen Z and millennials, who value work-life balance more than previous generations, according to psychologist Jean Twenge. Advertisement 'They don't want their work to be their whole life,' Twenge said, noting that younger workers are often less tied down by family obligations that might prevent such travel. Yet many employees still hesitate to be upfront about bringing a plus one. Twenge suggests this may be because newer workers are unsure about workplace norms, especially when they're just finding their footing in professional environments. 3 There's a growing trend called 'blended travel' or 'bleisure,' in which business travelers mix work with leisure by adding personal time or bringing loved ones along. REDPIXEL – But some employers are beginning to embrace the shift. Advertisement Ginger Taggart, vice president of brand management for global premium brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said many companies now support blended travel — and now even encourage it, noting the presence of another can help reduce stress. 3 Bringing friends and family along is especially appealing to younger Gen Z and millennial generation members, who value work-life balance more than previous generations, according to psychologist Jean Twenge. Zoran Zeremski – 'It enables all of their workforce and their employees to benefit from the productivity of their business demands, but at the same time having their life enriched,' Taggart said. Still, boundaries matter. Stephan Meier, professor at Columbia Business School, emphasized that employers should set clear expectations. Advertisement If the workday ends at 5 p.m. and evenings are free, there may be no harm in a guest tagging along. But when dinners and team-building events are part of the itinerary, it can be a bit more difficult to steal time away. That's likely why some are using their work trips to kick off a vacation by adding extra days dedicated to PTO — some thing hotels have taken note of. The rise in 'bleisure' travel has jet-setters extending the length of their hotel stays and looking to book resort destinations, especially all-inclusive properties, according to a 2024 travel forecast from Hilton. To appease these travelers, hotels are adding Peloton bikes, pillow menus, digital room keys, plenty of outlets, wireless charging pads on nightstands and more. 'The continued rise of bleisure is reshaping standards for business travel as professionals look to balance productivity with meaningful, personal experiences,' Gary Steffen, global category head, full-service brands at Hilton, told Fast Company. 'Today's travelers want to make every journey count. As such, we're focused on delivering fulfilling stays where work and relaxation come together seamlessly, supported by thoughtfully designed spaces, a vibrant atmosphere, dynamic bars and restaurants, tailored service and exceptional wellness experiences.'
Business Insider
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
Gen Zers and millennials are bringing plus-ones on work trips and not telling their bosses
Have you ever secretly brought a friend or partner on a work trip, leaving them to sneak around the hotel while dodging your boss? Brian, a millennial who works in the film industry and asked that we only use his first name, told Business Insider that when he traveled to Cannes Film Festival on a business trip in 2017, a friend secretly crashed in his hotel room. He said he didn't tell his boss because he didn't want to seem unprofessional. Even though the trip was mostly work, he and his friend ended up meeting people with whom they still hang out to this day, he said. Taking plus-ones on work trips is part of the growing blended travel trend, also known in the industry as " bleisure," or business and leisure. It's when work travelers also throw some leisure into the mix, either throughout their trip or by tagging on some extra, non-work days on either end. The trend is especially enticing to Gen Z, who have a greater focus on work-life balance than older generations, according to a recent YouGov survey of over 12,000 people commissioned by Crowne Plaza. The survey found 74% of respondents would invite a family member or friend on a work trip, with Gen Z and millennials being the most likely to do so. Nearly one in five respondents said they'd brought a plus-one on a work trip without telling their employer. Jean Twenge, a psychologist and the author of "Generations," a book about how Americans differ by generation, said Gen Z's approach to work-life balance could be part of the reason they're more likely to bring a plus-one on a work trip. "They don't want their work to be their whole life," she told BI. It could also be because they are less likely to have responsibilities like children that would require their partner to stay home, she said. As for why they might feel uncomfortable talking to their boss about bringing a plus-one, Twenge said it could be because they are relatively new to the workforce or their company, and they're just not sure if it would be okay. In some cases, blended travel and bringing a plus-one on a work trip is encouraged by employers, said Ginger Taggart, vice president of brand management for global premium brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, which owns Crowne Plaza. She said IHG has heard from its partners that bringing a plus-one on a work trip is no longer a "dirty little secret." In fact, some employers are actively looking to plan work trips that make blended travel, including with a guest, more enjoyable. "It enables all of their workforce and their employees to benefit from the productivity of their business demands, but at the same time having their life enriched," Taggart told Business Insider, adding that employees say bringing a loved one on a work trip helps reduce their stress. Stephan Meier, a professor and chair of the Management Division at Columbia Business School, told BI that it should be the employer's responsibility to ensure that expectations on business trips are clear. For instance, it could be the case that employees are expected to work 9-to-5 and then have the night to themselves, in which case their boss might not mind if a partner tags along. In other cases, especially in the age of remote work, the employees may be expected to participate in team dinners or other bonding activities in the evenings. Either way is acceptable, Meier said, but it's important that those expectations are clearly set and communicated. "Everybody knows then what the rules are," he said. "There's no hiding in the lobby or pretending we don't know each other to make sure that somebody else doesn't see that I'm together with my significant other." Do you have a story to share about bringing a plus-one on a work trip or business travel in general? Contact this reporter at kvlamis@
India.com
20-05-2025
- General
- India.com
Gen Z's Shift from Religion to Spirituality
In recent years, a significant shift has been observed in the spiritual landscape of Generation Z, those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. While traditional religious affiliation appears to be declining among this demographic, there is a notable surge in interest towards spirituality, meditation, and yoga practices. This trend reflects a broader search for meaning and inner peace among young adults in an increasingly complex world. Shifting Paradigms: From Religion to Spirituality Recent studies have highlighted Gen Z's evolving relationship with faith and spirituality. According to a 2021 Pew Research Center report, 48% of Gen Z individuals in the United States express some form of spiritual belief without aligning themselves with traditional religious institutions. This statistic underscores a growing trend of young people identifying as 'spiritual but not religious.' Dr. Jean Twenge, a psychologist and author specializing in generational differences, observes that 'Spirituality offers a sense of connection and purpose that Gen Z increasingly finds lacking in material pursuits.' This sentiment reflects the deeper yearning for meaning that characterizes much of Gen Z's approach to life and personal growth. The Appeal of Eastern Spiritual Practices Yoga and meditation have emerged as popular gateways to spirituality for many in Gen Z. These practices are seen not only as tools for physical and mental wellness but also as avenues for spiritual exploration. Science of Identity Foundation emphasizes the deeper spiritual purpose of yoga, beyond its physical benefits. As taught by Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda Paramahamsa, yoga is fundamentally about union with the Supreme. He explains: 'Yoga means 'union' and 'union' means a loving relationship; just like two friends can be united. They're united by love. Or the husband and the wife are united in love. They are one, yet they are distinct. So, this oneness is actually the oneness of yoga. That is the meaning of yoga: a loving relationship between you and God; an ongoing loving relationship between you and God.' This perspective resonates with many young people seeking a more profound connection to themselves and the world around them. Mental Health and Spiritual Resilience The mental health crisis among youth has prompted many to seek deeper meaning and practices for emotional resilience. Meditation and mindfulness practices have gained traction not just as stress-relief techniques, but as tools for spiritual growth. Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda Paramahamsa teaches that true meditation goes beyond relaxation or stress relief. He says, 'Meditation means union with God. The word 'yoga' also means union with God, when the individual spirit soul links up with the Supreme Soul; when the individual spirit soul is focused completely on God—his mind, body, heart, his entire being is immersed in God. This is the meaning of yoga. This is the meaning of meditation.' This approach to meditation as a means of connecting with a higher power or one's true spiritual identity resonates with Gen Z's search for authenticity and deeper meaning. The Role of Social Media Social media has played a significant role in spreading spiritual ideas among Gen Z. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok host thriving communities centered around mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual growth. Apps such as Insight Timer and Calm have made meditation and spiritual practices more accessible than ever before. However, it's important to note that while social media can introduce spiritual concepts, true spiritual growth requires deeper engagement. Science of Identity Foundation's teachings are rooted in the foremost Hindu and yoga scripture, Bhagavad-Gita (Song of God). The essential teachings of the Bhagavad-Gita are that individuals should cultivate their love for God, their love for others, and use their lives for the well-being of others, guided by God within their hearts. Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Spirituality As Gen Z continues to redefine spirituality on their own terms, we may see a future where traditional boundaries between different spiritual practices become increasingly blurred. The integration of ancient wisdom with modern understanding, as exemplified by organizations like Science of Identity Foundation, could play a significant role in shaping this new spiritual landscape. The rise of spirituality among Gen Z represents not a rejection of deeper truths, but a sincere search for authentic connection and meaning. As this generation matures, their approach to spirituality may well lead to innovative forms of practice and community that bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary life. Disclaimer This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.
India.com
17-05-2025
- General
- India.com
Young generation moving from Religion to Spirituality? Study finds a new trend, it says...
Image for representational purposes New Delhi: Gen Z's Movement from Religion to Spirituality The article explores the transition of the new generation to searching for a higher purpose by doing inner work, yoga, and meditation. Despite the fact that the present time is full of sudden changes, unpredictability, and overuse of digital technology; however, numerous people born from 1995 until the beginning of 2010 are discovering their own way to spiritual happiness. A number of the traditional institutions that were originally fully integrated in the life of families and communities have noted a very clear decrease in participation and affiliation among young adults. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Gen-Z are the ones who go the extra mile, exploring personal growth, mindfulness, Eastern philosophy, and yoga to get themselves to the place of wisdom they are looking for. New studies have found that Gen-Z has been changing to a great degree in terms of faith and spirituality. In the case of the United States, a report by the Pew Research Centre in 2021 found that as many as 48% of the youth of Gen-Z have spiritual beliefs though they do not attribute themselves to the religious institutions. This data has pointed to a spike in youth who refer to themselves as 'spiritual but not religious'. Psychologist and writer Dr. Jean Twenge, who researches generational differences, said 'Being in touch with the spiritual side is the key to connection and meaning which is less likely to be found in material pursuits for the Gen-Z generation.' Another argument that can be made here is that the more profound orientation toward the meaning of life that distinguishes the approach of Gen-Zs is vulgar through a significant part of Gen-Zs. to existence and personal development.' A lot of Gen-Z youngsters have grown up in families which were religiously agnostic at best or who were religious naysayers. Furthermore, thanks to global internet expansion and online communication, these people have become globally aware and have also had a chance to learn about other ways of living which naturally led them to develop a pluralistic and questioning personality. Gen Z's most cherished values of inclusivity, authenticity, mental health, and individual freedom are in constant contention with the strictness of religion and its hierarchical institutions. This causes them to feel disconnected and disenchanted from traditional worship and authority-led spiritual structures. People have seemed to have lost faith in second-hand belief or inherited family traditions, and they are currently in the quest for direct experiences of the truth. The fact that the psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge is a psychologist who is also a generational researcher is pointed out in the article, noting that spirituality has become a tool for the new generation of religious people, the so-called Gen-Z. Spirituality gives them a sense of connection and a purpose which is in the present moment rather than in fear or guilt. In the Gen-Z, meditation and yoga are the first choice for inexperienced (sometimes joined by a group of friends) people who want to start their spiritual quest. It is not uncommon for people to have first adopted these practices as stress relief and a way of staying healthy, but with time, these very practices became something sacred to them. Consequently, young people perceive that stillness is achievable in the tumult of the world; they feel the presence of a supernatural power that they can develop a close relationship with there. Not only that, the Science of Identity Foundation founder , Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda Paramahamsa who explains that the ultimate purpose of yoga moves beyond physical activity and in actuality, it is the practice of yoga that makes the connection possible, says of yoga. It implies that yoga is uniting two entities, a man and God together, playing out a loving relationship. Gen-Z is, therefore, to this one version of the divine, entirely natural, purely an internal matter and cannot be identified as only one way. The mental health of Gen-Zs is seen as the central issue for the generation of the 21st century. We witness the escalating levels of anxiety, stress, depressive states, and burnout in mental cases whereby traditional coping mechanisms are no longer effective among the majority. A large number of young persons are now doing things like breathwork, mindfulness, and mantra meditation not only to heal the symptoms but also to elevate their spirit. To give additional information, Jagad Guru points out that meditation is a way of reaching yoga, the oneness with the Divine. 'When the individual spirit soul contacts the Supreme Soul, the person becomes God-conscious, and the soul is in the real situation of meditation', he says. He also added meditation is much more involved than a mere mental break. It is an approach to self-realization. In this way, one can deliberately disconnect from their ego and reconnect with their spiritual core. Many people usually criticize social media for being superficial. However, it has become a totally unexpected source of a spiritual journey in Gen-Z. Social media platforms are full of influencers who smoothly merge olden wisdom and contemporary self-help, and they are giving nuggets of spiritual advice which are attractive and approachable. The Apps like Insight Timer, Calm, and Headspace have achieved that the guided meditation is offering to millions. Apart from that, various hashtags such as #spiritualawakening, #manifestation and #yogatok are getting millions of views, pointing to the fact that the desire for spiritual development is increasing. Still, a true increase in consciousness is derived from some action that can be beyond just thinkable contents. The Science of Identity Foundation organization, for example, uses scientific research to explain and relate spirituality and biology and utilizes its teachings to further its cause of one attaining spiritual enlightenment. One can also find a most relevant framework for spiritual development in the Bhagavad Gita, the verses of which not only provide a never-ending source of wisdom but also teach how to make devotion the most powerful force, how to lead a virtuous life and how to perform only kind acts to others. It is very interesting to see that when the numerosity of practices and wisdom from the diverse traditions comes into play, Gen-Z is slowly becoming a community yet to be formed in the religious sphere. To say that the shift of the new generation from organized religion to personal spirituality is tantamount to its renunciation is quite a harmful generalization and a far cry from the reality of its genuine interests and pursuits that it is doing.
