The Real Deal:
How Gen Z’s Slow and Steady Approach is Redefining Relationships

The youth are not disengaged from dating or the search for 'the one'; they’re simply more discerning. Having witnessed the fallout from failed relationships, broken marriages, and societal upheavals like economic instability and pandemics, Gen Z approaches love with caution. These experiences have reshaped how they view traditional markers like marriage and starting a family, making them take a slower, more thoughtful approach. Gen Z isn’t driven by superficial qualities; instead, they seek a 'fit' - a connection where both can bring out each other’s authentic selves. With only 35% in serious relationships and 12% actively seeking one, it’s clear: love cannot be forced. If it doesn’t unfold naturally, is it truly real?

Gen Z’s emphasis on building real, meaningful connections leads them to prefer meeting people in person - whether at social events, through introductions by friends and family, or via work and study collaborations - in-person interactions are by far the preferred and most effective method for this generation. According to the youth, casual dating is the most engaged and suited style for their generation, as it allows them to take things slow and find the right 'fit.' While a serious relationship remains the common end goal, with marriage and children as the ultimate aspiration, casual dating serves as a process of discovery - an opportunity to explore compatibility and assess if deeper commitment is possible. For Gen Z, it’s about giving people a fair chance, but full commitment only comes when the connection feels truly authentic. About 40% of youth occasionally use dating apps out of curiosity or as an initial touchpoint to meet people, but they see them as less sustainable or genuine and engage with these platforms with caution and a big “pinch of salt”.

But what sets this generation apart is their comfort, and innate joy with being single - they don’t view it as a flaw or something to feel insecure about. For the youth, being single is not a negative state of being, but a place of wholeness - it's arguably the most important, foundational step in their journey. They prioritise being comfortable and self-actualised on their own before inviting anyone else into their lives. In fact, 93% believe it is extremely important to prioritise their own personal growth and happiness before entering a relationship. This sense of personal completeness is mandatory before entering any relationship, as they don’t seek a partner to 'complete' them. Their dating approach is pragmatic: for this generation, casual dating is the necessary step toward finding something more serious - but it’s a journey, not a rush.

Gen Z has also discovered a new avenue for connecting with others that surpasses traditional dating methods or dating apps – through shared hobbies and interest-based clubs. Nearly 80% of youth view these spaces as ideal for meeting new people, as they offer opportunities for authentic and genuine connections. About 88% believe these environments foster stronger, more meaningful relationships compared to the often superficial interactions on dating platforms. In many ways, these physical spaces have become a tangible, real-world alternative to the virtual dating scene, allowing Gen Z to form connections in a more organic, less curated way. These spaces function similarly to online algorithms, streamlining shared passions and interests to connect like-minded individuals. Even industries are catching onto this shift, with branded collaborations, funded events, and campaigns - such as billboards proclaiming ‘Run Club is the New Hinge’ - highlighting this growing trend.

But aside from the dating scene, Gen Z is also turning to these spaces to find and forge meaningful friendships. Despite having thousands of 'friends' on Facebook or followers on social media, they don't see these connections as true friendships, or friends at all. 70% of youth believe that social media has diluted the meaning of the word ‘friend’, with 87% asserting that being a friend is an active, engaged role. 90% are actively categorising the relationships in their lives based on what they truly are, cutting through the labels society or social media may place on them. If you’re not an active participant in their life, chances are, you won’t be granted the 'friend' title. This approach has led to an inner circle that is small, selective, and primarily composed of family and a few trusted close friends. While some genuine friendships may exist both online and offline, for the most part, the 'friends' they have on social media are more accurately described as acquaintances - mass connections that don’t carry the same weight as real, meaningful friendships.

What is clear is that Gen Z has quite a few 'spaces' to fill in their lives - spaces reserved for only the realest, most authentic, and suitable candidates. They're not rushing to fill these gaps, but they are actively putting themselves out there and looking for the right connections. With 90% of the youth wanting to be married one day and 88% desiring to have children, the goal is shared, yet still a long way off. Over 60% of them see themselves getting married and starting a family after the age of 30. Their 20s, for the most part, are dedicated to personal growth, self-actualization, financial stability, emotional maturity, and life experience. They want to check these boxes before taking the next big leap in their lives - an approach that shows maturity and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a solid foundation for the future. Pretty forward-thinking, right?

As Gen Z continues to seek authenticity in all aspects of their lives - from love and friendship to their sense of self - there’s an opportunity for brands to tap into this deep-rooted desire for real spaces fostering real connections. By creating in-person spaces that encourage genuine interactions, brands can support this generation in actualizing their values and aspirations. This isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a value-driven approach that permeates their relationships, career choices, and overall life goals. Industries are beginning to catch on, but the demand for authenticity will only grow stronger. As Gen Z seeks meaningful experiences and connections, brands that can create environments fostering these ideals - spaces that bring people together authentically - will have a lasting impact, helping to shape the futures of a generation that prioritizes depth, truth, and realness above all.

Gen Z isn’t just searching for connections - they’re redefining what it means to truly connect.

Written by,
Jessica Lyne
YDx Research Analyst