Paolo, you emphasize the importance of stopping the criticism toward Gen Z for always asking "what's the point?" and instead focus on providing meaningful and constructive answers. Could you explain your perspective and share some examples?

I’m passionate about this because Gen Z is often criticized for asking, “What’s the point?”—whether it’s about work, traditional social norms, or even the structure of education. People say they’re lazy, unmotivated, or entitled, but that’s not what’s happening. When Gen Z asks, “What’s the point?” they’re challenging old systems and seeking deeper meaning. They’re not rejecting hard work or responsibility; they’re rejecting doing things that feel purposeless or out of touch with the world they’re inheriting.

You see, Gen Z has grown up in a time of intense global challenges—climate change, economic instability, political upheavals—and they’ve been fed empty promises and outdated ideas about what success looks like. They’ve watched older generations work themselves to the bone, sacrificing health and happiness, only to find that the systems that were supposed to provide stability often don’t. So, when they ask, “What’s the point?” it’s a legitimate, serious question. They’re looking for authenticity, for purpose, and for systems that align with their values.

The problem is that older generations often see this questioning as disrespect or laziness, rather than the hunger for meaningful answers that it truly is. Instead of criticizing them, we need to start engaging with these questions seriously. We need to have the courage to give thoughtful, constructive answers or, even better, be open to co-creating new solutions with them.

Here’s an example: In the workplace, a Gen Z employee might ask, “What’s the point of working 9-to-5 in an office when I can do my job just as well remotely?” Instead of dismissing that as entitlement, let’s have a real conversation. Maybe the answer is that some tasks genuinely benefit from in-person collaboration, and we can make those days meaningful, rather than forcing an outdated schedule. Or maybe we admit that some work traditions are just that—traditions that no longer serve a purpose—and we rethink how we approach productivity and flexibility.

Another example: When Gen Z pushes back against traditional career paths and asks, “What’s the point of climbing the corporate ladder if it means sacrificing my mental health?” they’re raising a valid concern. They want to know that the work they’re doing isn’t just about profit but about making a positive impact. Instead of criticizing them, we could take the opportunity to re-examine our values as organizations. How can we structure work to be both fulfilling and sustainable? How can we offer roles where people feel they’re contributing to something meaningful?

Even in education, when Gen Z asks, “What’s the point of memorizing facts when I have access to all the information in the world at my fingertips?” we should take that seriously. Maybe it’s time to reconsider traditional methods of teaching and focus more on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, rather than rote memorization. Instead of feeling threatened by their questioning, we could use it as a chance to reimagine how we prepare people for the future.

What I’m saying is, Gen Z’s relentless “What’s the point?” questions are an invitation to rethink and rebuild. They’re asking for systems that are transparent, authentic, and aligned with real purpose. If we ignore them, we’re wasting an opportunity to adapt and evolve. But if we answer them thoughtfully, if we engage and collaborate, we can create new systems that work better for everyone.

Gen Z isn’t lazy—they’re conscious, awake, and unwilling to settle for a life without meaning. They want their work, their education, and their lives to make sense, to contribute something real, and to feel aligned with a future that’s worth fighting for. We owe them serious answers, not dismissive criticisms. And we owe ourselves the growth that comes from listening to their challenges and embracing their desire to make the world more purpose-driven.