As a 50-something year old man with two kids now in their 30s, it’s tempting to believe I understand what it’s like to be 13 today. Truth is, I don’t. And that’s okay—it’s a reminder of how important it is for different generations to stay connected and keep learning from one another.
This article from The New York Times—a deep dive into the lives of three 13-year-old girls navigating adolescence in today’s digital world—was an eye-opener. It highlights how much has changed since my children were that age. Social media, smartphones, and the pressure to project a perfect online persona are now part of everyday life, shaping how teenagers experience the world.
But it’s not just about understanding what’s new; it’s about reflecting on judgement, leadership, and what we can learn from the next generation.
Thoughts on judgement
The piece reveals how easy it is to judge young people’s experiences through our own lenses. Anna feels left out because her parents won’t let her use Snapchat, while London struggles to escape the pressures of TikTok-perfect lives. Addi’s phone feels like a lifeline for connection and expression, even as it becomes a source of stress.
It’s tempting to see these as trivial problems, but for these girls, they’re very real. Judgement—whether from peers or adults—creates its own weight, and as leaders, parents, or mentors, we need to step back and listen before offering solutions.
Leadership in a new world
I’m not a psychologist, but it seems clear that connecting with and understanding younger generations is crucial. As leaders, this isn’t just a personal responsibility; it’s professional. A new workforce is moving through, and they bring a savviness and creativity shaped by a world many of us didn’t grow up in.
Today’s teenagers are digital natives—they’ve mastered tools and trends that can transform industries. Whether it’s through their resourceful use of social platforms, their adaptability to new technologies, or their unique ways of navigating mental health challenges, there’s so much we can learn if we pay attention.
Key takeaways
- Adolescence is evolving: Social media is reshaping self-confidence, relationships, and the mental health landscape for teenagers, especially girls.
- Empathy is essential: It’s easy to dismiss their struggles as small, but the pressures they face are immense.
- Listening matters: Whether leading a team or parenting, giving people the space to share their experiences without judgement is vital.
If you want to dive deeper into what it’s like to be 13 today, this article is well worth the read:
Read the full NY Times article here.
What are your thoughts? How do you approach bridging generational gaps in leadership or life?
Andy
