All over the internet there are dozens of articles and opinions on what makes someone a millennial. The theory I came across most often when researching, was that the individuals were born between the years 1976 and 2004.
Yes, that's a large gap, but in my opinion, it seems fitting.
In this day and age, I have seen the term used as both an insult and a compliment, so today I decided to put together some pros and cons of being a part of this specific group.
Con: People in older generations don't take you seriously.
I work at a nursing home in the activities department, so you can pretty much guess being a young person with developed opinions can differ from those that are going on 95 years old. Every Saturday, we have an activity called "Coffee Hour" where we read the newspaper for an hour to the residents.
First thing I learned, stay away from any articles that have to do with race, sexual orientation, gender roles or religion. In actuality, that leaves very little left to read. I made the mistake of reading an article one time about how gay marriage was being legalized and the storm it created was unbelievable. It took exactly 0.2 seconds to send this group of nice, calm residents into hate-filled, angry individuals.
In the nursing home I work at, we have a rehab side. The ages of the residents on this side range from 55 and up. I was having a conversation with one of our 57-year-old rehab patients and they turned to me and with contempt said, "Of course you would think that you're a millennial." This resident said that as if it was a bad thing to be considered one- as if I should be ashamed to have myself affiliated with that term. Because I was a millennial, he deemed my opinion invalid.
Pro: We are the generation of change.
I get to grow up in a generation that is working towards making this country we live in equal and fair for everyone; no matter your sexual orientation, race, religion, etc. We embrace diversity. The first African American president was elected into office and gay marriage has been legalized. We are definitely moving this country in the right direction.
Con: Family gatherings can become real awkward real quick.
My family members all grew up in a different time period than I did. With the age gap also comes with a lot of differences in opinions. I've learned that it's smarter to keep my mouth shut at family events rather than try to argue why I believe everyone should be treated equally.
Pro: I'm able to have a conversation with someone in Iceland with just a few clicks of a button.
My generation has a lot more perks than older generations did. By growing up in the age of computers, we are able to get our opinions out there via blogs or forums, talk to people online and have unlimited knowledge available to us at just the end of our fingertips. Sure, we could spend a little less time 'plugged in' but I think the gain of technology is way higher than the downside.
Con: We are seen as narcissistic.
Because we are the generation of selfies, millennials have this terribly off base trait linked to them. But instead, I think our generation is much more confident. We've grown up with others telling us to love ourselves and not to hide who we are but because we take selfies we are considered vain. Little backward, don't you think? Yes, take that selfie out in public, don't be ashamed. Instead, show off your confidence.
Overall, I'm proud to be a millennial. I look forward to seeing what my generation will be able to accomplish in the upcoming years. Our voices will be heard.
We are the optimistic generation. I know for a fact, we are going to change the world for the better.
