Never before have so many generations been simultaneously in the active work force. Some would estimate that today’s workforce spans four or five generations. Others would add that not only does the quantity of generations create a challenge, but also the differences between them exponentially increase that challenge.
The dilemma here isn’t the generations. The dilemma is our dwelling on their surface-level differences without digging deeper. Generations by definition are lumped into generalizations, and generalizations have a way of pulling us to the surface. When you combine the dwelling on differences with the absence of an intentional awareness of personal core values, you create an even greater divide between generations.
Staying on the surface of anything or anyone will always lead you to a set of differences, disconnects, and unhealthy divides … especially when that is what you’re looking for. I think we would be surprised to find that the deeper we dig into the core values of individuals within each generation, the more we’d find how much they have in common.
Staying on the surface of anything or anyone will always lead you to a set of differences. Share on X
What have you seen in common at the core? Share it with us below!
I am from gen X, and I live with a Baby Boomer and a gen Y. We are very different, but we share the same core values, e.g., honesty, altruism, friendship; and some hobbies – we three love to read. We learn from each other every day: Monica brings us up to speed in new technology and music; I contribute with the business and global perspective that I gain by working at a multinational company; Regina brings the experience and wisdom, and is always curious to know about the latest trends. Together we are much richer than what we would be if we saw the world only with our own lenses.
You must be willing to learn and share ideas with each other to solve problems in the work place and at home. If you think your to smart to learn from each other you don’t have a chance at being successful at home or in a relationship. A closed mind is just that closed. Boo, on that closed mine.
I totally agree with your observations. The relational disconnects you mentioned create barriers to building healthy communities and workplaces. As a pastor and nonprofit leader, I’ve found that we discover common ground when addressing matters pertaining to the common good. When community forms around an idea, task or mission related to the common good of a community, people discover one another in new and more meaningful ways. Starangers become acquaintances – acquaintances become friends & friends connect at a deeper level.