Supposedly, some of the goals of higher education are to develop sound character traits, take rigorous courses, prepare for the workforce, and encourage critical thinking. Walking around a university campus observing the students, one wonders how many of the aforementioned goals are actually being carried out.
As I traverse a local university campus, I witness a number of troubling sights that were largely absent as early as 10 years ago. Most students are either sitting or walking to and from classes, but they aren’t paying attention to the environment. They’re mesmerized by their phones, and many are still in their pajamas wandering around like zombies. How can anyone with a sense of self-respect remain in their pajamas all day long? One can understand lounging around the house in one’s pajamas on the weekend, but strolling out in public during the week?
Of course, it’s a different story if there’s a pajama day once or twice a year, as is the case in secondary school, but to be dressed in one’s pajamas much of the time seems to be a sloppy habit. Most normal folks get up in the morning, change into their clothes, wash their face, comb their hair, and proceed to meet the day. Too many Generation Z students appear disheveled as they have breakfast in the dining hall, and many show up late for class in their pajamas.
Not long ago, you wouldn’t dream of coming to class late, because you could be marked absent or tardy, and you’d miss out on crucial class material. Where does this narcissistic sense of entitlement come from? It displays a lack of respect for professors and students who show up on time ready to learn. Arriving late and wearing pajamas are merely manifestations of a deeper problem, which could be termed indifference to other views, laziness, and a self-worth deficit.
Although these slovenly habits are partially driven by culture, individuals can decide for themselves whether they will be motivated or slothful. Unfortunately, large numbers of Gen Z folks and some Millennials continue to live with their parents well into their 20s or 30s. Where is their sense of independence, initiative, pride, or desire to raise a family? They seem to be trapped on a treadmill of perpetual adolescence of their own free will, and their lack of situational awareness is astonishing.
Some good businesses abide by this motto: “The only time that success comes before work is in the dictionary.” This is a lesson that young people should take to heart and memorize, or else they will be doomed to repeat the same mistakes over and over again. Since many young people don’t heed advice or learn from the examples of purpose-driven folks, they will remain addicted to a virtual reality that’s unhinged from the real world.
Are there some solutions to the pajama generation mentality? Yes, there are plenty of actions that can be taken by those who are chained to self-defeating habits. First, these young people need to understand that in life, we can’t always get what we want. In order to truly absorb that reality, they might have to run into brick walls a few times to emerge from their slumber, because they are so encased in their cocoons. The sooner they learn hard lessons, the easier it will be to discard destructive habits in order to forge a productive destiny.
Next, strive to create structure in your life. If you have trouble getting up, set the alarm and wake up with a daily or weekly purpose. A brisk morning exercise couldn’t hurt, so discipline yourself to get the circulation and energy moving prior to breakfast and a day of study or work. Tear your eyes away from social media platforms in favor of savoring your environment and reading from a print media outlet.
Third, take pride in your appearance and personal hygiene. Don’t wear pajamas or sloppy clothing to a job interview or to work. Develop an awareness of your environment and consider the needs of other people, because there are social standards for a reason. Develop a habit of reliability, be on time, and do your best to generate your own luck. You’re only a victim if you choose to be one.
Finally, there’s an alternative to raising the pajama generation. We could help to raise youngsters who learn how to communicate effectively, are respectful of others, and put forth a positive first impression minus the drama. Youngsters can learn from experience in order to correct mistakes and move on to new challenges. They should shed the entitlement mentality and earn their way through equality of opportunity and merit. It’s time to grow up, pajama generation!
