So many people, especially young people, are impacted by surface-level communication. When all we ever hear is “wyd” over and over again, it becomes clear that real conversations are missing. It’s not that we have nothing to say—it’s that no one’s asking anything worth answering. This leaves people feeling isolated, bored, and unheard. In a generation already battling high rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, the lack of real connection only makes things worse.

If we keep going like this, we’ll become even more disconnected. We’re already known as one of the most antisocial generations—not because we don’t care, but because we’ve lost the habit of truly talking. Surface-level texts and recycled phrases aren’t enough to build real friendships or support systems. But if we make the effort to start meaningful conversations—about our interests, ideas, struggles, or literally anything real—we could bring back genuine connection and help each other feel less alone.

We can’t afford to keep drifting apart. Gen Z has the power to be one of the most connected, creative generations, but only if we start talking like it. Now’s the time to ditch the empty “wyds” and start saying something that matters. Whether it’s deep, funny, random, or honest—anything real is better than nothing. Let’s stop settling for dry conversations and actually see each other. The change starts with us.