Are you part of the greatest entrepreneurial generation in history?
September 4, 2024
Gen Z and Millennials are making waves in the business world. In fact, Gen Z is being hailed as the most entrepreneurial generation to have ever lived. This bold claim isn't just hype - it's backed by the incredible drive and innovative spirit these leaders are bringing to the table.
These generations, lead by millennials and Gen Z, are redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur. From tech-savvy teens launching apps in their bedrooms to college students running thriving e-commerce businesses, they're proving that age is just a number when it comes to business success.
What's driving this entrepreneurial fever? For starters, many have grown up in a world where startups become unicorns overnight and influencers turn their personal brands into empires. They've seen firsthand that traditional career paths aren't the only route to success. Add to that their innate digital fluency, and you've got a generation that's uniquely positioned to thrive in the modern business landscape.
Pandemic Lessons
The pandemic of 2020 taught many important lessons. First, discovering that they could actually work AND have a life was a big shift. The second reality that sunk in for many is that they were still valuable as employees when they worked remotely. Some learned a hard lesson when companies they were loyal to, didn't return that commitment when the economy shuttered.
More than money
But it's not just about making money. These entrepreneurs are passionate about making a difference too. They're launching businesses that align with their values, focusing on sustainability, social justice, and innovative solutions to global problems. It's like they've cracked the code on how to blend purpose with profit.
Here's what makes their approach to entrepreneurship so exciting:
1. They're masters of the side hustle, often running multiple ventures simultaneously.
2. Technology isn't just a tool - it's woven into the very fabric of their business models.
3. They're all about collaboration, and building supportive networks and communities.
4. Flexibility and work-life balance are non-negotiable for them.
5. They're not afraid to challenge traditional business norms and create their own rules.
What's particularly inspiring is how Gen Z is embracing neurodiversity in entrepreneurship. They're showing the world that different ways of thinking aren't just acceptable - they're advantageous in the business world.
Another Drive- Purpose
- The drive for doing work that matters, and making the world better is a key driver for emerging entrepreneurs. This reality is well-documented and takes the following forms:
- Purpose-driven work: Approximately 74% of Gen Z believe jobs should have a greater meaning than just earning money.
- Social impact: Around 60% want their jobs to impact the world, compared to 39% of Millennials.
- Company values alignment: About 83% of Gen Z consider a company's purpose when deciding where to work.
- Ethical employers: Roughly 77% of Gen Z say it's important to work for a company that aligns with their values.
Lumps included
Of course, the entrepreneurial journey isn't always smooth sailing. There are challenges and setbacks. But Gen Z and their Millennial counterparts are resilient. They view failures as learning opportunities and pivot with impressive agility.To all the young entrepreneurs out there, whether they're part of the "most entrepreneurial generation ever" or the innovative Millennials who paved the way, they should know they're part of something truly special. They're not just participating in the economy - they're actively shaping its future.
As these emerging leaders continue to dream big, take calculated risks, and find support you can count on, there's no doubt that these new ventures and leaders will leave an indelible mark on the culture, and the world. They're redefining entrepreneurship for a new era, and it's thrilling to watch. The future of business isn't just bright - it's positively dazzling, thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of Gen Z and Millennials.
Sand or Solid Ground?
The drive to create and to lead will have a significant effect on the culture in the years to come. Exactly what and how these emerging generations create new businesses and ventures and the kind of culture they foster will shape what America looks like. Finding an anchor for values and culture that goes beyond what is politically correct will determine the health and impact that is created. The Bible calls that building on solid ground or sand, and which foundation has been chosen will be revealed by life's storms.
Jesus said it this way:
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Matthew 7:24-27
The Bible provides clear guidance about how to build that foundation and the bigger purpose that we're called to serve. If you feel that this article is describing what drives you, join us for our upcoming workshops to help build on what's truly trustworthy. Schedule a virtual coffee to learn more.