When I transitioned into my 30s and started a family, my focus shifted from after-work gatherings to family time. I still put in the hours and cultivated my passions, but everything changed when I entered my 40s and embraced motherhood. I moved from the demanding world of television production to the more flexible realm of digital media, allowing me to work late at home after the kids were asleep. What surprised me most during this transition was how the age dynamics at work shifted dramatically—I found myself surrounded by colleagues two decades my junior, which, at first, was a little daunting. However, as time passed, I discovered the immense joy of working alongside them.
While those in their 30s often came with an air of entitlement, the 20-somethings were refreshingly different. Here’s why I genuinely cherished working with this younger crowd:
1. They Valued My Experience:
Instead of brushing me off, many of the younger employees sought my guidance when faced with career decisions or contemplating changes. They recognized that my job title came from years of hard work and industry knowledge and believed I could offer valuable insights. This was a stark contrast to the 30-somethings, who often perceived my success as mere luck.
2. They Introduced Me to New Perspectives:
These young professionals were not only adept at navigating social media but also had a wealth of recommendations for books, music, and shows I had never encountered. A big shoutout to them for introducing me to The Queen’s Gambit—I’m hooked!
3. Shared Frustrations Fostered Unity:
It was bonding to share frustrations over corporate nonsense, and having a team of fresh faces agreeing with me made the experience even more enjoyable. It created a sense of camaraderie that was refreshing.
4. Their Style Was Inspiring:
Despite the usual grumbling about young people’s fashion choices, I was pleasantly surprised by the style sense of many of my younger colleagues, even on a budget. After leaving my last job, I needed fashion advice for an interview and turned to a former coworker, who was just 25. We exchanged outfit photos until I found the perfect look. Although I ultimately declined the job, I received the offer, thanks to her keen eye!
5. Their Passion for Hobbies Motivated Me:
In my earlier years, I often regarded downtime as just that—downtime. However, my younger colleagues were deeply engaged in side projects that fueled their creativity. Inspired by them, I explored new interests and even took an internship, which opened doors to part-time work and fresh opportunities. They reminded me that pursuing passions is ageless, and they cheered me on every step of the way.
6. Their Humor Brightened My Days:
Following them on social media was a delightful treat. Their wit and humor brought a smile to my face, with gems like:
- “My head says ‘bikini body,’ but my heart says ‘pizza.’”
- “When you hold the elevator for someone who only goes one floor, you feel betrayed.”
- “When mom doesn’t pick up, you start to wonder if she’s mad…turns out she’s just busy living her own life!”
In summary, working with the younger generation has enriched my career and personal growth in ways I never anticipated. For anyone considering this intergenerational collaboration, I highly recommend it!
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Keyphrase: intergenerational collaboration at work
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