Our culture today contains individuals with diverse ethnic and cultural values. According to some experts, we also have for the first time very distinct differences based on varying generational values. You undoubtedly have heard of Baby Boomers and Gen Xers. Do you know their basic differences? Ever hear of traditionalists and millenials? Understanding the differences of these generations can help us better understand how to deal with and relate to one another across generations. Being aware of the differences will better enable us to deal with the strengths of each generation and in turn allow issues and problems to be managed more effectively. In some cases, the differences may not be as obvious as one would think.

These individuals were born from 1900 to 1945 and, as such, have worked longer than the rest of us. They are hard-working, loyal to institutions and conservative with their finances. Being through two World Wars and the Great Depression would tend to do create those types of values. These folks are reliable and dependable. Due to their longevity and the significant world events they have endured, they offer a perspective that the remainder of the population cannot. In today’s technologically advanced world they are not as computer proficient.

This generation was born between 1945 and 1964. These individuals are the first true workaholics. They enjoy their free time but the demands of the workplace and the desire to get ahead have resulted in their strong work ethic. They are a majority of the workforce. Boomers are the epitome of "political correctness". They’ve mastered saying the right thing at the right time to the right individual. The outspoken boomers created the change in social policies we now take for granted. By and large, these are the folks in charge today in government and business. They are competitive by nature. As they have matured, their focus on getting ahead and career advancement is becoming less of a priority as more attention is given to their overall wellness and holistic lifestyles.

These folks were born from 1965 to 1980. They are entrepreneurial and do not expect any institution or individual will necessarily help them. It is on their shoulders. They tend to move around from employer to employer, seeing a job as a stepping stone to something more fulfilling. Gen Xers are technologically advanced, having grown up with significant technological change. They expect and adapt to continuing technological changes. They adopt their own style and don’t necessarily respect hierarchical organization structures. Some say this is because they witnessed their workaholic parents burn the midnight oil with minimal results to show for it. Their loyalty is not to the organization they may work for, but to their own career. If they don’t get what they want from an employer, they move on. Gen Xers don’t place as much value on earning the most money and tend to balance personal goals with career.

Millenials were born from 1981 to 2000. They are the digital generation and use technology to its fullest. They are very technologically savvy. For the majority of their lives, they have lived in affluent times. Although they may not see or understand that they are affluent. They have lived their lives guided by the sometimes over protective Boomers. Money is not their greatest motivator. Enjoying a well balanced life, even if it means sacrifice, is a major goal. They are confident and have a high self esteem. Millenials have been raised in an environment of collaboration; organized sports teams, clubs at school, etc. They are more team oriented.

No particular member of one generation exemplifies all of these traits. There are however distinct differences however. As we relate across generations it is important to recognize the perspective and life experiences that mold each generation. It is in recognizing our differences from which our strength as individuals manifests itself.

For more information, go to:

www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/WL/00045.html

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