Photo by parentingteensandtweens.com

Gen Z needs solitude more than any generation before them. Not because they dislike people, but because they are tired of being constantly exposed.

They grew up in a world that never goes quiet: endless notifications, messages, scrolling feeds, and constant comparisons. Their minds have been switched on all the time, so it makes sense that they sometimes crave to switch off.

For them, solitude is not retreating. It is breathing space. It is a way to recharge and find focus again in a world that expects them to always be online and available.

The challenge begins when we misread this need. When a Gen Z colleague or friend prefers to be alone, we often react with concern or judgment. “Why so quiet?” “Come join us!” “You need to be more social!”

But most of the time, that quiet moment is not isolation. It is self-care in its most genuine form.

If we want to build healthier relationships with this generation, we need to learn how to give space.

Not a cold silence, but one filled with respect.

Instead of trying to fill their solitude, we can simply stand beside them, without pressure and without judgment.

Connection still matters deeply to Gen Z. It just looks different now.

Less frequent, but more meaningful.

Simpler, but more real.

And maybe they are reminding all of us of something important: sometimes the best way to be there for each other is to let one another be alone for a while.