In today’s highly digital era, Generation Z faces a complex set of challenges. From the overwhelming flow of information and the pressures of social media to high productivity demands, these factors often disrupt life balance.

Although known as a generation highly adaptive to technology, Gen Z often overlooks crucial aspects of life, such as physical health, time management, and self-control. This imbalance can lead to long-term consequences that not only affect academic performance but also impact overall mental and physical health. Below are some key habits that may have become part of your daily routine—take note!

1. Excessive Screen Time: One of the most common habits is excessive screen time. As digital natives, Gen Z is almost inseparable from gadgets—whether for studying, working, or entertainment. According to Alodokter’s recommendation, ideal screen time should be limited to 1–2 hours with regular breaks. Without realizing it, prolonged screen exposure without rest can lead to mental fatigue, which hampers cognitive function and creativity. To overcome this, applying the Pomodoro Break method—short breaks every 15–30 minutes—can help maintain focus and productivity.

2. Irregular Eating Patterns: Another concern is irregular eating habits. The trend of trying viral foods or following culinary fads without paying attention to nutritional intake can be harmful. Excessive consumption of sugary and high-carb foods not only increases the risk of diabetes but also triggers sugar crashes—a condition marked by a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, followed by fatigue and drowsiness. Additionally, dopamine released from high sugar intake can have addictive effects if not properly managed.

3. Poor Sleep Routine: Staying up late or sacrificing sleep for the sake of assignments or deadlines is another serious issue. Many students forgo night rest to chase academic or personal goals. However, sleep plays a vital role in tissue repair, emotional regulation, and maintaining heart and metabolic health. In fact, lack of sleep reduces productivity and increases the risk of health issues.

4. Excessive Multitasking: Gen Z tends to multitask—studying while listening to music, having multiple tabs open, or using phones while completing assignments. Though it may seem efficient, various studies have shown that multitasking actually reduces concentration and cognitive effectiveness.

Given these points, it’s important that you learn to set boundaries and understand your body’s limits. Your body is a temple—and only you know its inner workings. Here are a few habits you can start adopting to better care for it:

1. Engage in Regular Exercise: Staying fit doesn’t require heavy workouts like weightlifting or intense push-ups. If you aim to stay healthy, light activities such as cycling or jogging regularly are enough. Remember: being healthy doesn’t have to be expensive—but it does require discipline.

2. Eat More Fiber: With the prevalence of fast food and high-meat diets, your body also needs fiber and vitamins to balance sugar and fat levels. Foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains (such as oats) can help regulate your diet—and even serve as healthy alternatives to staples like white rice, which is high in carbohydrates.

3. Improve Sleep Quality: Do not push yourself, especially when you're already exhausted. Fatigue not only reduces work concentration but also weakens your immune system. Getting adequate rest boosts metabolism and stabilizes emotions and self-confidence.

As a concrete step towards a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, students at Universitas Dian Nusantara are encouraged to engage in positive roles through the university’s various Student Activity Units (UKM). These platforms allow students not only to achieve accomplishments but also to stay physically active and healthy.

As the generation of the future, it’s time for Gen Z to adopt a wiser lifestyle. Start with small steps: reduce screen time, manage your diet, get enough sleep, avoid multitasking, and use social media more mindfully. Don’t hesitate to get involved in positive activities through UKMs at Universitas Dian Nusantara.