New Generation May Be The Next Greatest Generation

STORYTELLING | by Sherry Stripling

IN THE YEAR 2000, two authors, William Strauss and Neil Howe, predicted the generation about to come of age, the so-called Millennials, would be the most responsible generation since World War II.

Strauss and Howe, in writing their fourth book on generational studies, predicted that, like the G.I. generation before them, this group would experience great world turmoil that would help shape their lives.

In fairly quick order, the nation went through 9/11, the invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, and the “Great Recession” ― serious issues that defined all, but will perhaps have the longest effect on those going to war or  getting established in their first careers.

Many articles have been written about how the workplace is learning to adjust to the different demands of the Millennials, which Howe and Strauss defined as those born between 1982 and 2001. In part because of their comfort with technology and the value that adds to their skills, the new workers do not always believe the boss knows best.

But there is much that bodes well from this group, which the authors believe is poised to define the 21st Century in much the same way as the G.I.s defined the 20^th because of these traits:

• They seek life/work balance
• They are considered the first youth generation in living memory to be less violent, less vulgar, and less sexually charged than the pop culture that adults are producing for them
• They’re expected to fuel the emergence of a new American middle class
• They will use their technology skills to change political and economic institutions and to promote a new sense of community and public good

Perhaps Harry Potter won’t be the only one of his generation to succeed in making the world a better place.