A generation is typically named after something significant that has happened in that time period. Generation X is nicknamed the “Baby Boomers” because of all of the babies being born after soldiers came home from war. My generation is the millennials. We are the largest, most ethnically and racially diverse generation in the United States. We have been born into technology, not knowing a life without it. We are called the Millennials because we were born into a new millennium. Some would say that we are the most excepting group of Americans due to our thoughts towards gender and sexuality identities, abortion, and other controversial topics. If all of this has some correlation, then why does almost every one and and their sister say that we are a disgrace, lazy, and the worst generation ever born? Well, there are some points to show why.
In 2013, Joel Stein wrote and article for Time Magazine titled “Millennials: The Me Me Me Generation”. In this he presented data that did in fact prove that our generation is lazy, narcissistic, fame obsessed, and that “more people ages 18 to 29 live with their parents than with a spouse, according to the 2012 Clark University Poll of Emerging Adults”. The millennial generation is too concerned with how they will get to their next pilates class followed by brunch at an all vegan cafe rather than how they are going to pay for books for college. Selfies and snapchats consume our past time and conversations are at all about what is going on in the world around us but rather if anyone knows when Kim K. will back on social media. We are all guilty of these things, myself included. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the world of technology or to focus on the latest celebrity gossip instead of local news. “What millennials are most famous for besides narcissism is its effect: entitlement,” (Stein). Growing up, this generation was given trophies not because they won, but because they went out and participated. Instead of being told what strict goals should be set, we have been told we can do whatever we want to do as long as we set our mind to it. That leads to entitlement. “A recent study showed that 40% believe they should be promoted every two years, regardless of performance,” (Stein). I recently saw a video that spoke the truth regarding the entitlement this generation has. It is called “Millennial International: Sponsor a Millennial Today."*
This not-so-serious video, portrays how many young Americans lean and depend on those older than them in oder to get through life. This is just one of many examples that show what is wrong with my generation.
Those born between the early 1980’s and the early 2000’s were born into a world with endless opportunities. Not only are we the largest and most diverse group, but we are one that has the power and capability to do great things. It is because of technology and social media that our generation has received such slander from older generations. Yes, we have many weaknesses, but we also have endless possibilities for success. We have so many resources and avenues to get us to or end goals, whatever they may be. The millennial generation holds the power to make changes all the way from the classroom to government policies. All it takes is the effort to out down our phones and look at the world around us. If this generation was more involved in politics and social issues, the country would not be so divided. We are not as bad as everyone says we are, we just need encouragement from each other and a passion to stand up and make a change. Why do I believe that other generations have no tolerance for us? I believe that the millennial generation has received constant bash and slander because older generations can’t let go. Many were raised to lean on mommy and daddy and don’t know how to fend for themselves. If we could just break away and learn how to handle ourselves in the real world, then I believe that the millennial generation could be the greatest of them all.
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