Around 22 percent of the population in the world are Millenials. They represent close to two billion people who were born between the years 1981 and 1996. Today, they are the largest group of adults on earth, more than baby boomers, and generation X, Y, and Z members.
From a societal perspective, this entails different things. For one, retail companies should focus the bulk of their marketing and advertising campaigns on them. For another, they are the driving force behind labor, economic, political, and societal change.
As we explore these and other pertinent issues, let us look at three of the most important lifestyle trends in the young adult segment.
Part of The Family
A family-owned dog is not only a four-legged animal that barks and likes to play outdoors. Neither is a cat, a bird, a goldfish, a ferret, a hamster, or any other pet. They are integral members of our household, big and little creatures that share with us our moments of sadness or joy, cherish in our triumphs, and provide consolation in our defeats. They are our brothers and sisters, and most importantly, our true and loyal friends.
As societies develop and we become more aware of issues related to animal rights, animal psychology, behavioral patterns of mammals, and many others, this is quickly becoming more and more real. We are beginning to understand that our pets have feelings and needs, and if they are to live happy, meaningful lives with us, we should take care of them.
This shift in perception has resulted in various personalized products and services catered to our furry friends. From toys, shampoos, soaps, and other cleaning products to sleeping mats, customized collars, state-of-the-art training facilities, and shared pet transport services, the 21st century domesticated animal is in a better place than it has ever been; a special place within our hearts and inside our homes.
Health, Food Safety, and Immunity
Everybody likes junk food. Whether it’s a burger from McDonald’s, Burger King, or Jack in the Box, a Pizza from Domino’s or Pizza Hut, or a burrito from Taco Bell or Taco John’s, few will say no to one of these dishes, especially in times of stress and personal turmoil. After all, they are called comfort food for a reason. They provide us with relief, albeit temporary from the pressures stemming from work and the daily grind.
Still, things are beginning to change, most notably among the younger members of society. They are starting to realize that taste doesn’t need to come at the expense of personal health and vice versa; a dish high in nutritional content can also be soothing and delicious.
The underlying reason for this repositioning is, as we all know, the covid-19 global pandemic. Aside from terms like global virus or pandemic, if there is one word constantly being thrown out there by private and public media outlets alike, it is immunity. Naturally, we should eat the things we like. But our choices should also be based on strengthening our immune system and building an adequate defense to fight off disease.
Technological Exhaustion
If you are looking for a person between the ages of 15 and 35 without a smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer, you won’t find one, regardless of where you go. We live in a world defined by technology and connectivity, a world where everyone spends hours upon hours online, checking their emails, surfing for the latest product or service, sharing pictures and videos, or chatting with friends. In the last half-decade or so, the number of social media platforms has increased exponentially, as have their members. People with one or several social media accounts are now in the billions.
Yet, as the old saying goes, too much of anything is never a good thing, even if the thing itself is beneficial to us. Drinking enough water is one of the best habits you can have, but if taken in excess, it can cause hyponatremia, currently considered a life-threatening disease. Working out every day for three hours will deplete your body and cause premature aging and weaken your defenses.
The same goes for technology. It only serves us if used with intelligence and moderation. Otherwise, it can cause addiction, an over-dependability on it, and even anxiety and mental health issues.
Three interesting lifestyle trends currently at the vanguard are the growing importance of having healthy and happy pets, increasing awareness of nutrition and immunity, and realizing that digital technology also has disadvantages. In the 21st century, they continue to define the choices many of our younger members of society make daily.
