By Isaac Tumwine
Recent neuroscientific discussions have sparked concern after emerging studies suggested that Generation Z (Gen-Zs) could become the first generation to show a decline in intelligence, compared to millennials. Researchers have pointed to worrying drops in IQ trends and basic problem-solving abilities, linking them to lifestyle changes, digital dependence and limited exposure to real-life challenges. Although these findings continue to generate debate, they raise an uncomfortable but important question: are we slowly raising a generation that struggles more with adversity?
Looking around today’s changing world, it is difficult not to notice a shift in how people handle pressure and hardship. These days, young people appear more emotionally vulnerable and less able to endure criticism, failure or discomfort. I could describe this as modern softness, not a lack of ability or ambition, but a reduced tolerance for life’s inevitable struggles.
Comfort has become the norm
The forget, life is not a straight line. As cliché as it sounds, it is what it is. But for the Gen-Zs, life must be convenient. With the internet placing entertainment, information and services at our fingertips, waiting has almost become unnecessary. While this progress has improved efficiency, it has also quietly reshaped attitudes towards effort and perseverance. Many people now expect results almost instantly. Unfortunately, life rarely works that way. Meaningful achievement still demands patience, consistency and the willingness to push through setbacks.
Cost of overprotection
Parenting and education systems have also changed significantly. Today, there is a strong desire to protect young people from disappointment, discomfort and failure. I often hear parents say, “I do not want my children to struggle like I did, so, I have to make it easy for them in life.” While this comes from genuine love and concern, it can sometimes deny children the chance to develop emotional strength. When individuals grow up shielded from challenges, they often struggle to cope when they eventually encounter them in adulthood.
Shadow of perfect lives
Social media has further complicated matters. Online platforms are filled with carefully edited snapshots of success, happiness and luxury. These images rarely reflect the full reality of people’s lives, yet they set unrealistic standards that many feel pressured to meet. Constant comparison can easily create feelings of inadequacy, fear of judgement and emotional sensitivity.
The growing desire for what is often called a “soft life” reflects this need for relief from overwhelming stress. However, when comfort becomes the main goal, resilience can quietly fade.
Life is not always smooth
One of the most important ways to rebuild resilience is by helping people accept that life naturally includes both success and disappointment. The popular belief that achievement follows a straight, upward path is misleading. Most success stories are shaped by mistakes, failures and repeated attempts. When people begin to see setbacks as part of growth, they become more willing to keep trying despite difficulties.
Strengthening the mind
Mental discipline is equally important. Simple practices such as reflection, journaling or meditation help people understand their emotions and respond to stress more calmly. In many developed countries, mental health support has become widely recognised and encouraged. These programmes help individuals build emotional control and healthier coping strategies. In contrast, mental health services remain overlooked in many developing regions, leaving communities with fewer tools to handle emotional strain.
Failure is not the end
Perhaps the most valuable lesson society can teach is that failure is not a sign of weakness but a necessary part of progress. Every setback provides an opportunity to learn, adjust and improve. People who experience challenges early in life often develop stronger confidence and problem-solving skills later on.
Parents play a crucial role in shaping this understanding. Children naturally fail while learning to walk, read or master new skills. When parents respond with encouragement rather than criticism, children learn that mistakes are part of learning. Over time, this builds confidence, courage and a willingness to take positive risks.
Seeing failure as a stepping stone rather than a dead end strengthens mental clarity and emotional endurance. It prepares individuals to face life’s realities with determination instead of fear.
Everyone’s responsibility
As society continues to evolve, building resilience must become a shared responsibility between families, schools and communities. Comfort and convenience are valuable, but they should not replace strength and perseverance. Future generations will face challenges that demand emotional toughness, creativity and endurance.
Helping young people develop these qualities does not mean denying them support or compassion. Instead, it means guiding them to face difficulties while knowing they are not alone. A balanced upbringing that combines emotional support with real-life challenges may be the best way to prepare them for the complex world ahead.
