You make an excellent point about labels. While they provide a signpost to generational experiences, they have gone downhill. I wonder if that’s because the people coming up with the labels are cranky and old (full disclosure: I’m a boomer) and don’t see the good that the younger generations are doing. Is it because the younger generations have a different values than the Silent Generation or Baby Boomers?
Thanks for your thoughts, Teri. Although they do relate somewhat to generational experiences, there is no consistency with which the labels are applied. And I think you're on to something about who is doing the labeling! The quote from the beginning of the post alludes to the fact that each generation thinks they are smarter than the next. If they are doing the labeling, I can see how this is flawed haha!
I really like the idea of doing away with the labels. From a relationship and communication standpoint, they don't help. I'd rather just be open to talking with and learning from everyone. (and full disclosure, I am also a boomer)
Great start here, Heather! Those tired old labels might indicate a tendency, a gross generalization, but they do not tell the truth. We are each one individuals with our own personal values BUT we can all find common ground if we make the effort. We are, after all of the same species. Well, most of us any way. Not too sure about my next door neighbor...
Like you, I can't remember the dates associated with each 'generation'. And it seems that negative connotations are often attached to the names.
I like your analogy. Instead of broad brush strokes, we should remember that each person is really the fine details.
You make an excellent point about labels. While they provide a signpost to generational experiences, they have gone downhill. I wonder if that’s because the people coming up with the labels are cranky and old (full disclosure: I’m a boomer) and don’t see the good that the younger generations are doing. Is it because the younger generations have a different values than the Silent Generation or Baby Boomers?
Thanks for your thoughts, Teri. Although they do relate somewhat to generational experiences, there is no consistency with which the labels are applied. And I think you're on to something about who is doing the labeling! The quote from the beginning of the post alludes to the fact that each generation thinks they are smarter than the next. If they are doing the labeling, I can see how this is flawed haha!
I really like the idea of doing away with the labels. From a relationship and communication standpoint, they don't help. I'd rather just be open to talking with and learning from everyone. (and full disclosure, I am also a boomer)
Thanks for taking the time to read the post! 💚
Great start here, Heather! Those tired old labels might indicate a tendency, a gross generalization, but they do not tell the truth. We are each one individuals with our own personal values BUT we can all find common ground if we make the effort. We are, after all of the same species. Well, most of us any way. Not too sure about my next door neighbor...
I think I'd like to meet that neighbor!