As is often the case, more and more generations are being forced to live, work, and co-exist together. As human lifespans continue to hit 100 and beyond, these differences in generations can become painfully obvious. While there are many differences between people who are Gen X, Millennial, or Gen Z, here are five of the major ones that seem to have the greatest impact on us today.
Thinking About the Future
Recent studies and surveys have revealed that a staggering 78 percent of Millennials who were born between 1980–1995 do not have strong plans for the future in regard to investments and possessions. Along these same lines, nearly 64 percent of Generation X’ers who were born between 1965–1980 have no will in place. This demonstrates a change in how people look to the future and how hopeful generations today are about what will and will not be possible in the future.
Food Choices and Eating Out
There are some differences in food habits and how the generations buy food and eat out. In 2008, the largest food recall of more than 3,200 products being recalled made history and shook people’s faith in food supply chains. Older generations are often untrusting of food services because of this experience and are less likely to take advantage of new trends for food ordering and servicing. Younger generations on the other hand are a driving force for many food trends seen today.
Health and Wellness Concerns
Today is it estimated by the American Association of Orthodontists that nearly 4 million Americans are wearing braces with Gen Z using Invisalign more, and older generations staying more traditional. This trend can also be seen in other areas of basic health and wellness such as diet, exercise, and medical care in general. Younger people are not as likely to seek medical care for minor issues and may even be forced to put off care for more serious issues due to finances and other constraints.
Job Opportunity and Education
The job market today has changed drastically between the times that Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z populations have entered the workforce. Jobs that once were available are no longer popular and some do not even exist anymore. New markets and services are creating new job fields for people to explore. But in general, it is also much harder for younger generations to get and maintain viable employment and earn a living wage than it was for their parents and their grandparent’s generations.
Home Ownership Options
The final major difference that can be seen between the generations is the change that has occurred in regard to homeownership. More people today are renting than ever before as apartments, condos, and rental homes are much more common in cities across the country. While rent is high mortgage rates have also been much higher than in the past and the younger generation often faces issues with securing loans that are necessary to purchase a home of their own.
While there are many differences that can be seen between Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, these five changes have had some of the greatest impacts on these populations today. Understanding how these generations look at the world and what they are dealing with can make it easier to live together and get along more easily. A little understanding can go a long way and make relationships and collaborations in work, school, and daily life much more amiable. Not letting these differences get in the way can help change outlooks and current situations for many people today!
