In a world marked by uncertainty and complex challenges, a generation has emerged that often feels like it’s navigating uncharted waters—the so-called Doomers. One might even sum up millennials and Gen Z as the doomer generation. Amidst the economic crises, the pandemic, environmental concerns, and societal pressures, this generation frequently experiences a sense of hopelessness, questioning whether a chance for success was ever within reach at any point in their life. You surely have felt this way at least at some point in your life. We have to ask the question, is there really no path forward and do we live in a terrible time compared to 20, 50, or 100 years ago? Did our parents or grandparents have it that much easier and why do they seem much more fulfilled in life?
Doomer: A person (usually a millennial or generation Z and male) who has experienced apparent hardship (relationship breakup, job loss, failure etc.) and has became fully immersed in apathy, self hatred, depression and generally being a loner.
Urban Dictionary
Why is there a widespread Doomer Mentality?
The journey of the Doomer is characterized by a range of difficulties. Economic instability, environmental issues, and societal expectations can create a narrative that seems void of optimism. Many individuals within this generation find themselves grappling with feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and a belief that opportunities have been limited. All of those things are thrown into our faces daily by news websites or social media, while at the same time showing us the obscene wealth and “success” of the super-rich. We are constantly being reminded of our “potential”, what we could be, and where we should be in life. This makes us feel behind in life.
These struggles often manifest as mental health challenges. The pressure to succeed and establish a meaningful purpose, particularly in a digital age that showcases idealized lives, can lead to a sense of disconnection, self-doubt, and ultimately a doomer mindset or mentality.
The Importance of Perspectives
Despite these challenges, a shift in perspective can be transformative. While it’s important to acknowledge and address real difficulties, altering how we view these challenges can be empowering. It’s not about denying hardships but rather recognizing them as opportunities for growth and resilience. A person with a mindset of hopelessness and negativity is deemed to be a doomer forever. You might ignore opportunities and pass up on them because it’s not worth it anyway. A positive mindset and being hopeful about a positive future is so incredibly important and in the end a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Rather than succumbing to hopelessness, adversity can foster a unique strength. This strength is created through navigating difficulties and can contribute to a greater sense of self-empowerment. If you constantly anticipate negativity in the future, that might be the prime reason why you feel anxious (of course there can be many reasons).
But how could any younger person even have or cultivate a more positive mindset?!
Is the Current Landscape really THAT Awful?
It’s essential to recognize that the Doomer Generation lives in an unprecedented era. Despite all of those new challenges, our world is marked by technological advancement, global connectivity, and numerous opportunities. Beyond the struggles, this is arguably the most opportune time in history. 50 years ago we probably would not even have heard about some sad minor tragedy from the other side of the world, or maybe just from a quick glance at some newspaper. We spend more and more hours on the screen and in today’s media landscape and negativity sells. It’s important to recognize that. Positivity rarely gets highlighted and when it does, it is often associated with another person which might make us envious.
Consider the accessibility of information, the ability to connect with people worldwide, and the potential to contribute to meaningful change. The same technology that may contribute to feelings of despair can also serve as a tool for seeking support, connecting with others, and driving positive transformations. It is so easy to connect online to other like-minded people and depending on the “bubble” you are in, it can weigh you down massively or also uplift you and bring out the best in you.
Cultivating Resilience
While it may seem daunting, the challenges faced by the Doomer Generation can be an opportunity for growth and transformation. Rather than succumbing to a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, embracing a proactive and more positive mindset can lead to resilience and empowerment.
Instead of viewing challenges as insurmountable, our generation can recognize their capacity to overcome difficulties and be hopeful about the future. By doing so, they can not only improve their personal well-being but also contribute to positive changes within their communities and the world at large.
Doomers have the potential to redefine their narrative. By viewing challenges through a new lens and recognizing the potential for growth, this generation can shift towards a more positive perspective.
As time moves forward, I’m content that many doomers will find inspiration and empowerment in reshaping their story. Through embracing challenges and fostering a positive outlook, this generation can contribute to a future characterized by resilience, determination, and the potential for meaningful transformation.
You can change, you are not helpless and life is not hopeless.