A new survey shows that social media is making Gen Z and Millennials feel really bad about their finances. The report, which was conducted by the personal finance website NerdWallet, found that 62% of respondents said social media made them feel bad about their financial situation. The main reason cited for this was that people are constantly bombarded with photos and videos of others living a lifestyle that is seemingly unattainable. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and frustration, especially for those who are struggling to get by.
However, just because someone can afford to post about their fancy purchases doesn't mean they're doing better than you financially. In fact, they may be in more debt than you are. If you're looking to get your finances in order, there are a few reasons to get a personal loan. Personal loans can help you consolidate debt, build credit, and save money on interest payments. If you're struggling with your finances, a personal loan could be a good option for you. The survey also found that 70% of respondents said they were either "very" or "somewhat" confident in their ability to get a personal loan. This suggests that despite the negative impact of social media, most young people still believe in their ability to improve their financial situation.
A Timeless Dilemma: Keeping Up With the Joneses
Comparing your personal situation to others is a recipe for unhappiness. There's a reason that ancient lawmakers put in rules about "coveting" your neighbor's property. According to Bankrate, 47% of Gen Z and 46% of Millennials surveyed reported feeling negative about their own finances after seeing posts from their "friends" on social media.
This is a timeless dilemma often described as "keeping up with the Joneses." Aspiring for more is okay. Being assaulted digitally by images of someone else's nice new home or expensive outfit can cause those aspirations to turn into envy and jealousy. Social media was designed to amplify marketing messages. This is one instance where it's having a negative effect.
Children Are Developing Unrealistic Expectations About Money
This is a finding that should be a concern for all parents. The Bankrate survey found that 64% of parents thought their children were developing unrealistic expectations about money after seeing posts on social media. It's not surprising. How many ads have you seen that promote "get rich quick" schemes? Conversely, how many promote hard work and sacrifice?
Children influence their parents more than they care to admit. A simple inquiry about "why" you're struggling financially when these programs are out there might be a teachable moment, but it stills brings up feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. The kids are focused on getting rich. Millennial and Gen Z parents are disturbed by the implication that they're "not enough."
Impulse Buying is Causing Buyer's Regret
This is one that everyone feels, but Millennials and Gen Z tend to do more shopping through social media than other generations. According to the Bankrate survey, 49% of them have made an impulse purchase on social media and 64% of those people have regretted it after the fact. The survey doesn't specify whether that's before or after they receive the product.
Social media has brought the world closer together and provides some benefits that were not available to former generations, but it's become so embedded in our lives that it's now affecting the mental and spiritual health of the younger generation. This survey asks some important questions, but it gives few answers. Finding those is up to you.
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Original Source: Credello: New Survey Shows Social Media Makes Gen Z and Millennials Feel Really Bad About Their Finances
