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3484;
Score | 43
Quietly Loud Nigeria
Creative Writer | History Student | Learning People and Processes @ Lagos State University
In People and Society 3 min read
Are Gen Zs Really Nonchalant Or Just Aware ?
<p>There’s this conception people often hold about Gen Zs.  </p><p>That we’re nonchalant.  </p><p>That we don’t want marriage.  </p><p>That we don’t want kids.  </p><p>That we don’t want to commit.  </p><p>But I’ve been thinking do they ever stop to ask why?</p><p><br/></p><p>Let’s start with finance.  </p><p><br/></p><p>In the 1970s, 80s, and even 90s, life in Nigeria though not perfect — was more affordable. People could think of building a home, starting a family, and raising children without the kind of overwhelming economic pressure we face today.</p><p>Now, with inflation constantly on the rise, even thinking about having children comes with anxiety. It's not just diapers and school fees anymore, it’s the long-term emotional, physical, and financial investment in raising a whole human in a world that feels increasingly unstable.</p><p><br/></p><p>Then there’s emotional availability.</p><p>In past generations, expressing emotions wasn’t really a thing. Many of our parents grew up in homes where feelings were buried, not addressed. But times have changed. Education and awareness have opened us up to mental health, trauma, emotional labor, and the importance of being emotionally present. That changes how we view relationships, parenting, and commitment.  </p><p><br/></p><p>Physical health is another part of this conversation.  </p><p><br/></p><p>More women are becoming conscious of the risks that come with pregnancy and childbirth. Back then, most of these dangers were either endured or ignored. Now, we know better. We know pregnancy can be life-threatening. We know about postpartum depression. We understand the trauma tied to childbirth, and that’s why women are more open to options like C-sections, IVF, surrogacy and sometimes, no children at all.</p><p><br/></p><p>And of course, there’s marriage.</p><p>It used to be something people endured, not necessarily enjoyed. Many stayed because they feared societal shame, not because they were happy. Emotional abuse, domestic violence, and mental neglect were often swept under the rug. But today, Gen Zs are choosing themselves. We're choosing peace. We’re leaving relationships that don’t serve us. We’re unlearning the idea that divorce is a sin or failure. We’re realizing that love shouldn’t come at the expense of our health or sanity.</p><p><br/></p><p>Some say we’re selfish.  </p><p>Some say we’re scared.  </p><p>But what if we’re just... aware?</p><p><br/></p><p>Because truthfully, when you're gone if you lose yourself trying to please everyone, if you die inside trying to meet up with expectations life will move on. The people you broke yourself for will cry a little, maybe, but eventually, they’ll live without you.  </p><p><br/></p><p>So maybe Gen Zs aren't broken.  </p><p>Maybe we're just being careful.</p><p><br/></p><p>So I’ll leave you with these questions:</p><p><br/></p><p>• Do you think we are being realistic or just scared of responsibility?  </p><p>• Is this a bold evolution or avoidance?</p><p>• Should happiness and healing come before tradition?  </p><p>• Are Gen Z’s rewriting the rules or running from them?</p>

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