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Clever Dude
Clever Dude
Drew Blankenship

Gen Z Is Opting Out of These 10 Adulting Basics—Here’s Why That Won’t Work

Gen Z adulting
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Gen Z is known for challenging societal norms—and that includes how they approach adulthood. Many are openly opting out of what older generations considered “basic” life skills, from budgeting to cooking. While this new outlook promotes mental health and avoids burnout, there are some essentials that simply can’t be skipped without consequences. Whether it’s for independence or future financial security, certain habits still matter. Here are 10 “adulting” basics Gen Z is skipping—and why that approach won’t hold up long term.

1. Ignoring Budgeting in Favor of “Vibes”

Some Gen Z adults are prioritizing spontaneity over spreadsheets, leaning into spending based on mood instead of a structured budget. Apps like QuickBooks and Mint are available, yet many avoid them, thinking they’re too stressful or outdated. The problem? Without tracking where their money goes, savings goals can slip through the cracks. Financial freedom starts with understanding income versus expenses. Ignoring budgeting won’t make money stress disappear—it’ll only delay the crisis.

2. Refusing to Get a Driver’s License

A surprising number of Gen Zers are skipping driver’s licenses entirely, relying on rideshares, bikes, or public transportation. In urban areas, that might work fine—but it can limit job opportunities, especially in suburban or rural regions. Employers may require reliable transportation, and emergencies aren’t always Uber-friendly. Driving might not be fun, but it’s still a functional adulting skill. Skipping it narrows mobility and independence.

3. Skipping Traditional Careers for Gig Work

Many Gen Z adults are drawn to freelancing, content creation, or gig-based income instead of traditional 9-to-5 jobs. While it may offer flexibility, gig work often lacks benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, or paid time off. It can also make financial planning harder due to inconsistent income. The freedom is appealing—but without a backup plan, the hustle can lead to burnout. Long-term stability still matters, even in the creator economy.

4. Avoiding Face-to-Face Communication

Texting, DMs, and emojis dominate Gen Z’s communication style—but avoiding phone calls or in-person conversations can backfire in professional settings. Job interviews, workplace conflicts, and networking still require verbal communication skills. Relying solely on digital interaction may lead to missed opportunities. Confidence in conversation is a soft skill that pays off. Digital fluency is great, but so is being able to talk things out.

5. Ditching Cooking for Delivery and Snacks

Many Gen Z adults are skipping home-cooked meals in favor of takeout, microwave snacks, or smoothies. While convenient, it’s expensive and often less nutritious. Cooking is a basic life skill that helps save money, improve health, and foster independence. Even learning just five go-to meals can make a huge difference. Uber Eats might be fast—but it doesn’t teach you how to feed yourself for life.

6. Postponing Healthcare and Dental Checkups

Preventive care often falls off the radar, especially for those without insurance or with high deductibles. But avoiding routine checkups can lead to bigger, costlier health issues later. Gen Z may prioritize mental health—which is great—but neglecting physical health isn’t a smart tradeoff. Dental work, especially, gets more expensive the longer it’s delayed. Health is wealth, and neglect now can mean major bills down the line.

7. Not Learning Basic Home Maintenance

From resetting a breaker to unclogging a sink, home maintenance skills are fading fast. Gen Z may prefer to Google solutions or outsource tasks, but not knowing how to handle simple issues can waste time and money. These aren’t just “dad skills”—they’re tools for independence. Renters and homeowners alike benefit from basic repair knowledge. YouTube helps, but firsthand experience still counts.

8. Treating Credit Cards Like Free Money

Credit cards can be helpful when used responsibly, but Gen Z’s relationship with credit is mixed. Some avoid credit entirely, while others rack up balances without understanding interest. Not building credit at all makes it hard to rent apartments or qualify for loans. On the flip side, overusing cards can lead to crushing debt. Responsible credit use is key to adult financial health.

9. Putting Off Long-Term Planning

Thinking about retirement, life insurance, or even emergency savings doesn’t rank high for many Gen Zers. But waiting too long to plan for the future can limit options later. Compound interest rewards early savers, and emergencies don’t wait until you’re “ready.” Tools like a retirement planning worksheet or robo-advisors can make it easier. Planning ahead might not feel urgent, but it’s how you build a safety net.

10. Believing They Can “Opt Out” of Adulthood Altogether

Perhaps the biggest myth is that you can entirely reject adulting and still succeed. While redefining adulthood on your own terms is empowering, some responsibilities are unavoidable. Bills, taxes, insurance, and decision-making don’t go away just because you dislike them. The key is balance—not burnout. Learning to handle the basics creates room for the freedom Gen Z values most.

Adulthood Isn’t a Trend—It’s a Toolkit

Gen Z is rewriting the rules of adulthood, and in many ways, that’s refreshing. But there’s a difference between challenging outdated norms and ignoring essential skills. Budgeting, planning, and personal responsibility aren’t relics of the past—they’re tools for building the future Gen Z wants. You don’t have to live like your parents, but you still need to pay your bills and protect your health. The good news? Adulting doesn’t have to be a burden—it can be your launchpad.

What do you think—is Gen Z redefining adulthood in a smart way, or skipping steps that matter? Share your take in the comments!

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