Victor Hugo Padilla Jimenez

How do younger generations in Mexico view personalismo in comparison to older generations?

How Do Younger Generations in Mexico View Personalismo in Comparison to Older Generations?

Why Personalismo Still Matters in Mexico—But Not for Everyone

Picture this: You're talking to your grandmother in Mexico about how to make a good first impression. She tells you, "Always look someone in the eyes and speak with warmth—it's the Mexican way." Now, fast forward to today, and your little cousin is scrolling through Instagram while texting with emojis and abbreviations. Personalismo—the deep, personal connection that has been the heart of Mexican culture for generations—may seem a bit old-fashioned to younger people. But don’t be fooled. While personalismo still plays a significant role, younger generations are redefining how it works in the modern world. So, what exactly is the divide between the old and the new?

The Old Guard: Personalismo in the Traditional Sense

For older generations in Mexico, personalismo is everything. It’s more than just a handshake or a polite “hola” at the door. It’s a lifelong commitment to maintaining close relationships, showing respect through gestures, and creating bonds based on trust. Whether it's making eye contact or offering a cup of coffee, personalismo emphasizes human connection at its core. To the older crowd, the world feels warmer and friendlier when you engage face-to-face, offer a genuine smile, and give a hug that lasts a little too long.

The New Generation: Personalismo in the Age of Screens

Fast forward to today’s world, where younger generations in Mexico are glued to their smartphones, laptops, and social media apps. While still maintaining some aspects of personalismo, they’ve blended it with their digital lives. A “good morning” text might be the new handshake, and emoji-filled conversations can replace face-to-face chats. In fact, for many young Mexicans, personalismo is not about physical closeness, but about showing emotional availability through social media. Personal connections may be formed via Instagram DMs or through memes shared on Twitter, proving that you can still feel close to someone even from a distance—just without the physical presence that older generations cherish so much.

Do Older and Younger Generations Agree on Personalismo?

Not exactly. While both generations agree that personalismo is essential, the way they express it differs greatly. Older Mexicans are more likely to lean into in-person connections, preferring heartfelt phone calls, family gatherings, and community events. On the other hand, younger generations may find it more practical (and, let’s be honest, cooler) to keep in touch virtually, using platforms like WhatsApp or TikTok to maintain their relationships. The result? A clash of cultures—one that balances old-school charm with modern convenience.

So, What’s the Future of Personalismo in Mexico?

While personalismo may look different in 2025 than it did in 1950, its underlying principle—valuing personal relationships—remains unchanged. Younger generations are simply finding new ways to make personalismo work in a digital-first world. Whether it's sending a quick voice note on WhatsApp or having a Zoom call to “catch up,” personalismo is evolving, but it’s not disappearing. It’s just becoming more creative, more flexible, and more suited to the rhythm of today’s fast-paced, tech-savvy life.