Boom vs X

482

I’m now going to look at the characteristics of Baby Boomers and Xers (including the Modern/Postmodern comparison) to see where I “fit” in each…

(My responses are in Red.)

Baby Boomer Characteristics

• They are motivated by high positions of prestige and an extra benefit that comes along.
• Not me-I don’t like “prestige.”
• They work hard to achieve the career goals in life.
• Like me-I set goals.
• They define self worth by their work and professional accomplishments.
• Somewhat like me, depending on the job/career.
• They often think that the 'gen-next' lack work ethics and commitment to the work place.
• I think most people lack work ethic & commitment.
• They are self reliant, independent and confident.
• I am self reliant and independent (my confidence waivers from time to time.)
• They have a strong belief in individualism.
• Very much like me.
• They are dedicated, passionate, and resourceful.
• Can be like me.
• They have a rebellious streak and are not afraid of challenging the prevalent practices.
• Yes
• They are open to change and adapt new things.
• Yes
• They often switch careers and are inclined towards starting a business.
• I’ve switched a lot, but not in an entrepreneurial way.
• They avoid too much long term planning.
• Not like me…I plan!
• Though they are idealistic, they are competitive and goal oriented.
• Yes
• They keep a positive attitude in life and change with time.
• I am not overly positive-or positive at all, actually
• They listened to rock and roll, which was the expression of their generational identity.
• Depends on how you define, “Rock & Roll.”
• They welcome challenges in life and strive to make a difference.
• I’m not a “challenge” guy, only if it is the only way.
• They adapt well to new technology.
• Yes
• They are pragmatic and are concerned with health and environment issues.
• I don’t care about my health, or the environment…sorry.
• They enjoy their free time and vacations to the fullest.
• I like free time!
• Another important baby boomer characteristic is that they think themselves as a special generation.
• I do not think I’m special, or that my generation is special, quite the contrary.

Generation X Characteristics

·         Divorce and working moms created "latchkey" kids.

·         No divorce, but my mother worked and went to college while I was growing up. I came home to an empty house often.

·         Traits of independence, resilience and adaptability.

·         Yes

·         Feels strongly that "I don't need someone looking over my shoulder."

·         Very much like me (to a fault)

·         Practical, self-reliant and individualistic.

·         Yes

·         Not too keen about rules and traditions.

·         I don’t like traditions.

·         Deep mistrust for institutions.

·         I am nearly paranoid towards institutions.

·         Frustrated, cynical, “slackers.”

·         I am cynical, not really frustrated, and not a “slacker.”

·         Grunge attire, Alternative music, Living w/parents

·         I was wearing “grunge” in 1978 (no disco polyester). We called it “being a slob.”  There is no other alternative but alternative (96.5 The Buzz.) I haven’t lived at home since August of 1981.

·         Expects immediate and ongoing feedback, and is equally comfortable giving feedback to others.

·         Maybe…

·         Working well in multicultural settings.

·         I prefer it…

·         Desire for some fun in the workplace.

·         Must have jokes…

·         Pragmatic approach to getting things done.

·         I am painfully pragmatic…

·         Deep disdain towards bureaucracy and corporate politics

·         I hate ALL politics, not just cororate.

·         Redefined workplace loyalty. (Instead of remaining loyal to their company, they have a commitment to their work, to the team they work with, and the boss they work for. For example, a Baby Boomer complains about his dissatisfaction with management, but figures its part of the job. A Gen Xer doesn't waste time complaining-she sends her resume out and accepts the best offer she can find at another organization.)

·         Uh…yes…

·         Career lattice. They can move laterally, stop and start, their career is more fluid. They valued their independence at their workplace.

·         Very much like me. I nearly always move laterally for the sake of work environment and independence over status of money.

Modern vs. Postmodern

·         Modernism values a single worldview rooted in objective science.

·         I’m like this now as far as the “single worldview” goes, but I’m a Christian. I was not like this before I was saved.

·         Postmodernism values multiple world-views based on subjective experiences and contingencies.

·         See above…

·         Modernism gathers information and knowledge are in a linear fashion.

·         I’ve become more linear in my approach, probably because I’m a teacher.

·         Postmodernism (Generation X) seek out information from fragmented and nonlinear sources, such as hypertext, visuals, and audio sampling.

·         I prefer to learn this way.

·         Modernists revere classical art and literature.

·         Not so much.

·         Postmodernists broaden their frame of reference to include pop-culture productions such as music videos and animation.

·         Me.

·         Modernists view institutions such as government, education, corporations, and media as authoritative.

·         No

·         Generation X views these same institutions with suspicion, cynicism and a critical eye.

·         Yes

So, I look to be a mixture of the two generations.  Which leads me to my next alternative:

“Generation Jones”

chris