19/05/2026
What if helping younger people find hope is one of the most important things leaders can do right now?
New research shows a really interesting generational pattern: younger Australians are significantly more likely to be feeling overwhelmed, scared and panicked about global events than their older colleagues.
And it makes complete sense when you think about it.
They have less life experience to draw on. They've grown up with social media delivering a constant feed of world events directly to their pockets. And the last few years have genuinely been a lot.
This isn't about resilience deficits or generational weakness, it's about context. It's also an invitation for leaders to step into one of the most meaningful parts of their role.
That's where optimism as an EI competency shines. We're not talking about toxic positivity, or "everything is fine!" plastered over real difficulties, but a genuine, grounded belief that challenges can be navigated. Along with a willingness to hold that belief, especially when others are finding it hard to access it themselves.
The research reminds us that older generations, who have lived through more, tend to see current challenges as part of a broader journey rather than the whole story. That perspective is a gift and it's one that can be shared.
Optimism is contagious. When we model it authentically, by acknowledging what's hard while pointing toward what's possible, we give the young people around us a reason to keep going and a sense that the future is still worth building.
🌱 "This is challenging, and we've navigated challenges before."
🌱 "Here's what we can focus on."
🌱 "I believe in where we're headed."
Who in your world might need you to hold a little hope for them today?
Source: McCrindle Snapshot, April 2026 — The Impact of Global Events on Australia's Morale and Behaviour
