Time to Get Over Ourselves: How Gen X Can Step Up for Gen Alpha and Z

Gen X, it’s time for some tough love. We've been the quiet generation, flying under the radar between the Boomers and Millennials, and we've worn our independence, creativity, and self-reliance like a badge of honor. But as the world spins faster and younger generations step up, it's time for us to ask ourselves: Are we really prepared to be the mentors and guides that Gen Alpha and Z need, or are we letting our baggage hold us back?

The Gen X Paradox: Independence vs. Emotional Intelligence

Growing up as latchkey kids in the shadow of the Cold War, we were left to our own devices more often than not. This upbringing shaped us into fiercely independent, resourceful, and creative adults. We learned to solve problems on our own, innovate with limited resources, and value self-reliance above all. These are incredible strengths that have served us well, especially in the business world.

But here's the rub: Our upbringing also left us with less emphasis on emotional intelligence. We were taught to "suck it up" and "keep going," often at the expense of understanding our own emotions and those of others. This lack of emotional intelligence can be a significant disadvantage when working with younger generations who prioritize empathy, collaboration, and social responsibility.

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The Unique Perspective and Skills Gen X Brings to the Table

Despite this, we have so much to offer Gen Alpha and Z. Our ability to think creatively, adapt to change, and navigate uncertainty is something these younger generations can learn from. We’ve lived through significant technological shifts, economic crises, and cultural changes, making us uniquely positioned to help guide them through their own turbulent times.

Moreover, we understand the value of hard work and perseverance—traits that will be essential as they face the challenges of the future. We also have the benefit of hindsight; we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t, and we can offer insights that only come with experience.

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What We Need to “Get over”

But before we can be of service, we need to address our own shortcomings. Our independent streak, while valuable, can sometimes make us resistant to new ways of thinking. We might find ourselves dismissing the values of younger generations, chalking them up to na?veté or inexperience. This mindset not only alienates us from them but also prevents us from learning from them—a critical mistake in today’s fast-paced world.

We also need to work on our emotional intelligence. It’s not enough to be problem solvers; we need to be empathetic leaders who can connect with others on a human level. This means actively listening, being open to feedback, and showing vulnerability—skills that may not come naturally to us but are essential in today’s collaborative work environments.

(If you want an entertaining look at this push and pull, follow ?GenX Talks on Tiktok.)

Where to Start

So, where do we begin? Here are a few high-level thoughts:

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning: The world is changing rapidly, and staying relevant means continuously learning and adapting. This includes not only keeping up with new technologies and trends but also improving our emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.

2. Mentorship with a Twist: Instead of viewing mentorship as a one-way street, approach it as a mutual exchange of ideas and values. We have much to teach, but we also have much to learn from younger generations.

?3. Foster Empathy and Collaboration: Make a conscious effort to understand and appreciate the values and perspectives of Gen Alpha and Z. This will not only help us connect with them but also enable us to work together more effectively.

?4. Let Go of the Pas*: It’s time to shed the old narratives of “tough love” and “sucking it up.” Emotional intelligence, empathy, and vulnerability are not signs of weakness; they are essential skills for leadership in the 21st century.

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?The Bottom Line

Gen X, we’re at a crossroads. We can either cling to our old ways or evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world. By embracing our strengths, addressing our weaknesses, and stepping up to guide the next generations, we can make a significant impact. It’s time to get over ourselves and get to work—because Gen Alpha and Z are counting on us.