Gen Z's "Love Story" Nostalgia - But, Creative Fields Probably Won't Be Coming Back

 Members of Gen Z are orbiting in two worlds. 

One is the nostalgia for the simpler analogue 1990s. That's when John and Carolyn had their "Love Story." Buy a Carolyn headband and an old-fashioned alarm clock. Feel safe. 

For those I currently coach I explain that, yes, back then was a time of job abundance. It was even possible to make a good living in creative fields. That is, as long as you developed specialized expertise. For me that was executive speechwriting/ghostwriting. Most of us creatives knew to be practical. Even in better times, we recognized that we had to. Few of us had any illusions about being the next F. Scott Fitzgerald and conjuring up a Gatsby.




The other world for Zers is the radical uncertainty about employability. Cost-efficiency, off-shoring and AI are sucking off entry-level jobs. Especially vulnerable are creative fields - writing, film production, graphic arts, music, acting and more. 

On BusinessInsider a mom shares her angst about her child majoring in film at a pricey liberal arts college. Is it a parent's responsibility to kill the dream in the name of pragmatism? 

As a coach, currently I warn that the passion for creative pursuits will probably have to be played out primarily as a hobby. Maybe there could be some gigs. But the odds are against landing day jobs, the way we used to.

Of course, there are the Zers who push back aggressively when I talk straight off the shoulder about the recent shifts in the law of supply and demand. But, essentially more and more are getting the memo. The Wall Street Journal reports: 

"A recent Harvard survey of Americans between ages 18 and 29 showed that 59% said they saw AI as a threat to their job prospects, with college graduates in particular sharing such concerns." 

In addition, the smart strategists are positioning their growing up as AI natives as a major selling point. Reddit agrees and hires Zers exactly because of that.

So here are in 2026. It's predictable that the term "creative" will lose its aura. Already, "problem solving" is what employers and clients want to hear when you're pitching for work. And, yes,  quantify the results.

Eventually, if there is less and work available, society will be encouraging hobbies. Maybe that's the best Zers and generations which follow can do. Therefore, being immersed in a creative avocation can be the new identity. Supporters of Universal Basic Income hail that as progress: Stipends to support artistic activity.

A first-generation college, I had been blessed to have had a 40-year career in a creative field. That was then.

Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head.

Together, we liberate your thinking. Then we change your story. And, unleash success. Meanwhile, we focus on bringing in income. That puts you in a position of strength.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, becoming a solopreneur and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.

Don’t give up before the miracle.

 

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