Photo by HBR.org.

Many parents and older professionals feel a real shock when they watch Gen Z. Life seems to move much faster through Gen Z’s eyes. They move quickly, switch tasks often, and expect fast results. For Gen Z, slow feels heavy. Long processes, slow replies, and quiet routines can feel boring. They like quick tools, short content, and instant feedback. Speed is not stress for them. Speed feels normal.

Older generations grew up in a different rhythm. They learned to take time, go step by step, and stay with one task. Slow work was a sign of care. Calm was a way to think better.

They often enjoy focus and deep attention. They are comfortable with silence, long meetings, and long-term plans. For them, moving slowly can bring better quality and fewer mistakes.

This gap creates tension at home and at work. Parents may see Gen Z as impatient. Managers may think they rush too much. Gen Z may see others as too slow or resistant to change.

The truth is that both styles have value. Speed brings energy and new ideas. Calm brings depth and stability. When generations learn from each other, teams become stronger, and life becomes more balanced.