I asked my mom and 17 year old brother what they thought about the millennial generation in a series of eight questions. Their responses represented opinions from two different generations. My mother's responses represented Generation X and my little brother's represented Generation Z. Some questions that asked for a compare and contrast of generations were left unanswered by my brother since he is almost still considered a millennial.
1. What is one form of technology our generation has that you wish your generation had?
Mom: Computers! It frees up so much time and allows us to multi task more efficiently.
2. What is one thing our generation has that you are happy your generation did not have?
Mom: Social media! While it can be fun, I believe it does more harm than good by allowing too much influence from others. It has created a new way to bully and harass and is a doorway to invasion of privacy for predators!
3. What surprises you most about our generation?
Mom: Their technological abilities! I'm still over here going "click and drag.... what?!"
4. What is some advice you have for our generation?
Mom: It's not enough... go the extra mile, do the work! You will not regret it, it will pay off and it will make life easier! This applies to relationships on all levels, your education and in your career! Make your family a priority! Set goals... big and small, achieve them! NEVER be afraid of change! Always talk to people- your generation does not engage as much due to social media and technology in general! Example: I'm using Facebook messenger to respond to interview questions.. ): Last two, I promise! Know that God has your back in everything! Lastly, make time for yourself, enjoy life, if you work hard you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Not necessarily always money but people and memories; experience relationships AND monetary rewards. Just one of these does not make you whole!
Brother: Go outside more and put down technology. Be social in person rather than over the phone. If you feel anxiety and awkwardness when meeting someone or trying something new, learn to overcome it. Make as many friends as you can.
5. What is your favorite thing about our generation?
Mom: Your confidence in your ability to learn and seek out information for yourself and your interest and genuine care in our country and our world and for human beings. You are conscientiously aware of the world that surrounds you!
Brother: I think that this generation strives to succeed and works very hard.
6. What do you think millennials take for granted?
Mom: People and time. Not intentionally I think Millennials miss out on too many LIVE moments. Write a letter, send it, call and visit your parents, keep in touch in person with friends the world can become a lonely place. It also means slot to all the people who are invested in you in someway! Stand out and be available!
Brother: I think that the millennial generation takes for granted the outdoors.
7. What qualities do you think millennials have that your generation does not have?
Mom: I think with technology this has really created a confidence in what people know they can do! Work abroad, work from home, have a career and a family.. so many opportunities in every aspect! That's the good one!
The bad one... unfortunately I don't always see as much of the can do attitude when it comes to physical aspects of work... I think this is partially due to technology and partially due to upbringing. Please know that it's not true of all.
8. How do you think millennials are changing politics?
Mom: You are demanding that your voice be heard! Also demanding for accountability at every level of the government no matter the position held!
Brother: Millennials are changing the outcome of politics by not being as involved. For example, it is proven that the younger generation does not participate in voting as much as recent generations. This affects voter turn out as well as the outcomes of elections.
After reading these responses, it is clear the morals and values are not lost in translation from my mother's generation to my brother's generation. The lives we live are heavily influenced by a foundation of values our parents have passed onto us. It is innovations like social media that are ultimately responsible for the major difference in lives from generation to generation, whether for worse or for better.