Follow your heart, not your wallet!
I just attended another workshop put on by our county workforce center, better known as the local unemployment office.
First of all, it was a trip down memory lane just being there once again. I spent some serious time there back in 2004 after I lost my last library job and I was trying to decide what to do next. It did, however, remind me how far I’ve come since then!
The information they distributed was a true revelation to me! The workshop was called: “Succeeding in today’s business culture” and its focus was generally on teaching the younger generation (those younger than Boomers) the assumptions made in today’s business world.
I had no idea my own work ethic was something the youngsters needed to study to understand! Then Andrew, the instructor, explained to us the different cultures Americans of different ages represent. This was a true education to an old dinosaur like me who never had kids of my own. I see I have not been keeping up with the generational changes since I was a teenager!
I’m familiar enough with the Gen X folks (born 1965-1975), because they aren’t that much younger than me, but the Gen Y or Millenials (born 1976-1990) surprised me. I had no idea that my own midlife crisis somehow propelled me into thinking more like a millenial when it comes to work and home life!
For example, the millenials want independence in their work life and enjoy challenging the old ways of doing things including the old business models. Me too!
They are the first generation to fully believe that their life is more important than the kind of work they do, the ideal being that your work is an extension of your life, your values, and your goals. Work must be satisfying with no old, worn out requirements for pretend loyalty to a company or boss who does not deserve it.
Mostly I love their independent spirit! They seek to make a difference, have a discernible impact, and demand excellent communications and flexibility between workplace and life in general. In other words, they see the world the way it is today, and probably can’t figure out how it ever got so dysfunctional. Me too!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m with you on this, Laura Lee. I’ve always loved variety and independence in my work environments, and now in my own business, too!
Ditto… That could be why I’ve had many traditional 9 to 5 jobs… I was always searching for something that wasn’t there, until I created it independently. I love their energy and indpendent nature, but they also can benefit from our life’s experiences and wisdom. These combined make a great mix.
Yes, Gayle! That makes US the perfect mix…right?
Laura Lee