I am raising my daughter from generation Z. We are dramatically different in the approach to money and career

My daughter is almost 20 years old and has been efficiently moving in the world of technology since childhood. She grew up surrounded by smartphones and social media, which she skilfully uses in many aspects of life. Like most of her peers, she prefers quick, informal contact, mainly through SMSs or messengers. In turn, I grew up in a world without the permanent presence of the Internet and I am still learning to use subsequent technological innovations. I prefer a more ordered form of contact such as a telephone conversation.

Although short messages are not always enough for me, I must admit that they are comfortable. The daughter and her friends quickly exchange messages using emoticons, shortcuts or memes. They communicate through Instagram, Tiktok and Snapchat, but I am not convinced by publishing photos or recordings from everyday life. My peers usually write straight, succinctly and officially.

Recently, we talked through guy when the daughter was abroad. It was great to see her face on the other side of the world. Growing up in a world full of technology has made him feel confident in the use of digital tools, including video call platforms, like zoom. I envy her.

The technology changed education – and for the benefit of her

I went to school in a traditional system based on full -time classes. The daughter uses digital tools and online learning. He can watch the lecture recording if he does not make it to class, and he is needed in a few seconds. This gives her a strong start in a potential legal career.

However, I am frustrated by the fact that the internet has become a “superpower” for her. When he needs an answer, he reaches for Google, looking for simple solutions even in trivial matters. I was taught independent thinking and drawing conclusions without immediate technology support.

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We perceive work and money differently

At the work of many of my friends, they value loyalty and stability. The daughter – like many of her peers – focuses on flexibility and balance between professional and private life. Although she cares about a well -paid job, she does not rule out that she will often change employers. For two -thirds of professional life I only worked in two companies.

In terms of money, we differ equally. The daughter – as befits her generation – lives in the world of immediate gratification. He loves card payment convenience, and treats bank transfers as something obvious. For me, it is still natural to pay in cash. And although the daughter would be more likely to accept a transfer than a banknote, she admitted that cash is still right – especially when during her work in the supermarket the electronic payment system suddenly stopped working.

Speed ​​is also a priority when it comes to food – and of course how to order it. For a daughter, ordering something by Uber Eats is no philosophy. I prefer to eat homemade stew, even if it requires more time and effort. For her, comfort counts, for me – cooking satisfaction.

We both value responsible spending and financial security, but we have different approaches. I am guided by caution, she prefers to invest in travel and experiences, rather than save on her own contribution to the apartment. He is not worried about the growing student debt.

Although we differ in many matters, it gives me hope

I envy her generation of one thing: sincere commitment to ecology and sustainable development. When I grew up, climate awareness was much lower. Today I watch with what passion my daughter is involved in activities for a better world – and I feel pride and hope.

I also value the openness of her generation on the topics of mental health. Young people are more willing to talk about their emotions with their family, friends or colleagues than my generation. This honesty is a great value.

I am learning to accept that we will not always agree. It can be frustrating, but also inspiring. Differences are an opportunity for mutual learning and respect for a different view. Fortunately, we are connected by a common base – values ​​such as respect, kindness and empathy, which only strengthen our relationship.

The above text is a translation with American Business Insider edition

Crowd: Mateusz Albin