16 Privileges Young People Don’t Realize They Have

It’s easy to hear older generations talk about “the good old days,” but they often gloss over the struggles that were part of daily life. I mean, can you imagine not having instant answers to all your questions at the tip of your fingers? From technology to social movements, today’s youth have luxuries and opportunities that their grandparents wouldn’t have dreamed possible. Now, that’s not to say life is a breeze for today’s young people, there are certainly challenges unique to this generation. But when we take a step back, it’s clear there are many aspects of modern life that offer real privileges, often overlooked in the hustle of everyday life.

Sure, some of these privileges are technology-based, like the ability to Google any question that pops into your head, while others are more societal, like broader access to healthcare and education. When you’re scrolling through your phone or getting same-day delivery, these luxuries can feel so common that we forget they’re, well, luxuries! Meanwhile, the conveniences of daily life keep getting easier, and opportunities keep broadening, sometimes in ways that even young people themselves don’t fully appreciate.

So, let’s take a moment to get into these hidden privileges, things that are now taken for granted but have truly changed the game for younger generations.

1. Access to Endless Information

A girl using a laptop in the library and sitting on the floorPhoto byPhoto Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Today's youth have nearly unlimited access to information with just a few clicks. The days of spending hours at the library or waiting for a book on interlibrary loan are mostly gone. Thanks to the internet, knowledge on virtually any topic is available instantly.

This access means younger generations can be better informed about their interests, the world around them, and even how to solve their own problems. While older generations had to work hard to find information, today’s youth can find tutorials, courses, and data on everything from quantum physics to how to bake the perfect chocolate chip cookie in a matter of seconds.

2. Instant Communication with Loved Ones

Can you imagine living in a world where contacting someone across the country meant writing a letter and waiting days, if not weeks, for a response? Now, with text messages, video calls, and social media, younger generations can communicate instantly, no matter where they are.

This instant communication also means that the world feels a lot smaller. Families can stay connected, friends can maintain close bonds over long distances, and even romantic relationships can thrive despite physical separation. It’s a convenience that’s drastically changed how we stay in touch and has made it easier to nurture relationships over time.

3. Advanced Healthcare at Their Fingertips

With telemedicine, virtual therapy, and even apps that help diagnose health issues, today’s youth have unprecedented access to healthcare. You can now see a doctor without leaving home, and many health apps offer insights into physical and mental health, making it easier for young people to stay healthy.

The availability of cutting-edge medical technology has also improved life expectancy and quality of life. While healthcare isn’t perfect in the U.S., it’s more accessible and advanced than ever before. Conditions that once required frequent doctor visits can often be managed remotely, giving the younger generation a significant advantage.

4. A Boom in Online Learning Opportunities

Serious student girl studying using laptop sitting at classroom deskPhoto byPhoto Credit: Depositphotos.com.

When it comes to education, younger generations can access a vast range of online courses, certifications, and even full degrees from the comfort of their own home. From platforms like Coursera and Udemy to prestigious universities offering online degrees, the options are endless.

This flexibility is something previous generations simply didn’t have. You no longer need to relocate or spend years in a classroom to gain new skills. In fact, many young people today are building entire careers based on skills they’ve learned online, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional schooling.

5. Greater Awareness and Support for Mental Health

Not too long ago, mental health wasn’t something openly discussed. Today, younger generations have access to resources, support, and conversations that normalize mental health challenges. Therapy apps like BetterHelp and mental wellness platforms have made counseling more accessible, allowing more young people to seek help when they need it.

Beyond just therapy, the stigma surrounding mental health has decreased significantly. It’s become much more common to see schools, workplaces, and even celebrities promoting mental health awareness, making it easier for younger people to recognize and address their own mental health needs without fear of judgment.

6. A World of Entertainment at Their Fingertips

Gone are the days of waiting for a new movie to come out on VHS or heading to a video rental store. With platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify, younger generations have access to an endless stream of movies, TV shows, and music anytime they want. Streaming services mean that entertainment is now on-demand, and it has radically transformed how young people consume media.

Beyond just convenience, today’s entertainment landscape offers unprecedented variety. From foreign films to niche genres of music, young people have access to an array of global media that previous generations could only dream of. This exposure to diverse content has broadened perspectives and introduced new interests that otherwise might never have been discovered.

7. The Ability to Work Remotely

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The concept of remote work was largely unheard of for previous generations, but now it’s become a viable option for many. Younger workers can often choose where they want to live since remote jobs allow them to work from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility has not only changed the daily commute but also the work-life balance that many young people enjoy.

Remote work opens up doors to job opportunities that were previously geographically limited. Young people can now apply for roles all over the country, or even the world, without needing to uproot their lives. It’s a privilege that allows for greater freedom, mobility, and even travel, all while maintaining a steady income.

8. Easier Access to Travel and Global Experiences

In the past, international travel was reserved for the wealthy or those lucky enough to score a special opportunity. Now, budget airlines, travel apps, and sites like Airbnb have made global travel more affordable and accessible than ever. Many young people now prioritize experiences over material possessions, often jetting off to explore new countries on a whim.

Travel apps have also made planning trips easier and cheaper. Young people can find the best deals, compare options, and discover hidden gems through platforms like Google Flights and Hostelworld, enabling them to see the world on a budget. This ease of access to travel has made the world feel smaller, giving younger generations a broader perspective and enriching their lives in ways that simply weren’t feasible before.

9. A Growing Focus on Social Causes and Activism

Previous generations often faced barriers to activism, with information limited to newspapers, pamphlets, and in-person events. Today’s young people have the power to raise awareness, mobilize movements, and make their voices heard instantly. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have become powerful tools for social change.

With more access to information about global issues, younger generations are more informed about social and environmental causes than ever before. They can connect with like-minded individuals, join protests virtually, and even raise funds for causes they believe in, all from their phones. It’s a privilege that allows them to make an impact on a global scale and take action on issues they’re passionate about.

10. More Diverse and Inclusive Representation

While the media landscape once lacked diversity, today’s youth are exposed to a broader range of voices and perspectives. Representation in media has improved across the board, with more stories featuring characters of various races, sexual orientations, and backgrounds. This progress has made it easier for younger people to see themselves represented in the media they consume.

This increased representation not only validates the identities of many young people but also fosters empathy and understanding among viewers. Today’s generation can experience narratives that challenge stereotypes and broaden perspectives, something that was sorely lacking just a few decades ago.

11. Access to Tools for Creativity and Entrepreneurship

From graphic design to music production, there are now countless tools available for young people to pursue their creative interests. Apps like Canva, GarageBand, and Adobe Creative Cloud provide access to professional-grade tools that allow users to create and share their art, music, and ideas with the world.

In addition to creative tools, platforms like Etsy and Shopify allow young entrepreneurs to start their own businesses with minimal upfront investment. Many young people today are building their own brands, side hustles, and even full-fledged companies from their bedrooms. It’s a privilege that has enabled a new generation of creators and innovators to thrive.

12. A Boom in Plant-Based and Specialty Diet Options

Gone are the days when dietary restrictions meant bland meals and limited choices. Today’s younger generations have an incredible variety of food options available–vegan, gluten-free, or keto to name a few. Grocery stores now offer entire sections dedicated to plant-based products, and restaurants increasingly cater to specialty diets.

Not only are these options more accessible, but they’ve also become more affordable. With so many choices on the market, eating according to personal values or dietary needs is easier than ever. It’s a luxury that allows younger people to align their eating habits with their health goals and beliefs, all without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

13. Exposure to Financial Literacy Resources Early On

For a long time, financial education wasn’t part of standard school curricula. Today, however, young people have access to countless resources to improve their financial literacy, from budgeting apps like Mint to investment platforms like Robinhood. Many are learning about saving, investing, and budgeting well before they hit adulthood.

In addition to these tools, social media influencers and content creators have popularized personal finance topics, making them more accessible and interesting to younger audiences. This exposure to financial literacy at a young age can help set them up for a more secure future, something that earlier generations often had to learn the hard way.

14. Accessible and Varied Fitness and Wellness Programs

In the past, access to fitness and wellness resources was often limited to in-person gym memberships or classes. Now, young people can access an entire world of wellness through apps and online programs. Platforms like YouTube, Peloton, and Headspace provide everything from workout videos to guided meditation, often at a low cost or even free.

Fitness trends have also become more diverse and inclusive. Young people can try out yoga, high-intensity interval training, mindfulness practices, and more, all from the comfort of their living room. This variety and accessibility make it easier for them to prioritize health and wellness, something previous generations didn’t always have the opportunity to focus on so conveniently.

15. Innovative Job Opportunities and Career Paths

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The traditional career ladder has evolved, and younger generations have access to job opportunities that didn’t exist just a few decades ago. Fields like digital marketing, e-sports, and social media management have opened up new career paths. Technology has created roles and industries that allow young people to combine their passions with their professional goals.

Additionally, remote work and freelancing have made flexible careers more attainable. Young people can often pursue careers that suit their lifestyles, working from wherever they choose and, in many cases, setting their own hours. It’s a level of career freedom that’s a stark contrast to the 9-to-5 in-person office jobs that dominated previous generations’ options.

16. A Greater Focus on Work-Life Balance

For many in previous generations, the concept of work-life balance wasn’t even on the radar. But for today’s young people, the importance of balancing personal and professional lives is not only a priority, it’s often a demand. Companies have responded by offering more flexible hours, remote work options, and even benefits like wellness days to support a more sustainable work environment.

Young people now have the freedom to prioritize their personal lives without feeling as tied to rigid work schedules. This shift has allowed them to pursue hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and focus on their mental health in ways that weren’t as socially accepted or achievable in previous decades.