The Hunger for Mentors in GenZ and Millennials
When we think about generational differences, it’s easy to get stuck in frustration or confusion about why other generations don’t “get it.” But what if we approach these differences through the lens of identity and resiliency? Understanding who we are and how we’ve been shaped by our experiences is crucial, not only for ourselves but for building bridges across generational gaps.
Generations are shaped by the culture, technologies, and values of their time, but at the core, we’re all searching for identity and purpose. If we fail to understand this, we can fall into what C.S. Lewis called “chronological snobbery”—the idea that our generation is somehow superior. One of the most powerful ways to resist this mindset is by fostering resiliency through identity formation, particularly in young people. When they understand who they are in Christ, they gain the confidence to navigate generational tensions without losing sight of their purpose.
In recent episodes of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we’ve discussed how younger generations—like Millennials and Gen Z—have unique challenges and strengths because of the world they’ve grown up in. They crave authenticity, inclusivity, and a sense of purpose, and they’re looking for leadership that resonates with these values. Older generations might struggle with this because they were raised in different environments where stability and conformity were prioritized. But this is where the importance of resiliency comes in—when we teach children to form a Christ-centered identity, they’re able to rise above cultural pressures and stay anchored, no matter the generational differences they encounter.
What’s exciting about this work is how it invites us into deeper mentorship roles. Younger generations aren’t just looking for someone to teach them; they want to be known, understood, and guided with patience. They’ve grown up in a world of instant gratification, but this doesn’t mean they’re incapable of learning patience—it means they need to see it modeled. This is where resiliency and identity formation come together. As older generations, we can foster relationships that build younger individuals up, helping them to understand that their identity isn’t based on technology, trends, or even their generational label—it’s based on how God designed them.
If we can lean into these differences with grace, empathy, and a heart for mentorship, we’ll find that generational divides aren’t roadblocks—they’re opportunities for growth and mutual learning. And it all starts with identity: knowing who we are in Christ, standing firm in that, and inviting others—no matter their generation—into that same understanding.