Bridge the gap

21 or 65, it’s time to learn from each other.

I’m 24. I’m a go-getter. And I’m scared that the generation gap in today’s working environment will be detrimental to the possibilities of success and creativity that lie within our communities.

While the “baby boomers” and “traditionalists” may have a different idea of how hard work is executed compared to what the “millennials” like myself think, it is important to remember one thing: hard work comes in many forms, but that doesn’t mean we should undervalue or dismiss a person and their ideas just because there is a difference in age and perspective.

There’s one sure-fire way to solve the possible tension and close-minded mentality in a work environment that is experiencing conflict because of this “generation gap.”

Communicate.

You must clearly discuss — face to face, not behind a computer screen — what your goals, motivations, ideas and frustrations are.

As a twenty-something myself, I’ll admit it: sometimes we have a tendency to want to take over and figure out the big picture without paying our dues or taking the time to understand the steps to get to the top. And, as I’ve seen, sometimes “baby boomers” and “traditionalists” are quick to dismiss the energy and out-of-the-box thinking that us “millennials” bring to the table.

Let’s do each other a favor and start the conversation and find some common ground. Let’s bridge that gap between generations, learn from each other, and empower one another to lead our communities toward the creative and successful future that we know it has the potential of reaching.