I’ve always been fascinated by generational differences, how we were raised, what shaped us, and how we see the world. As a mom to two daughters, one Gen Z and one Gen Alpha, I find it even more intriguing to watch how their experiences compare to mine and the generations before us. It’s incredible how each generation is influenced by the world they grow up in, yet I feel like Gen Z and Gen Alpha don’t get nearly enough credit for the resilience, adaptability, and wisdom they bring to the table.
Being born at the tail end of Gen X but identifying more with Millennials (hello, Xennial life!), I’ve always felt a bit like a bridge between two worlds. I understand the independence and toughness of Gen X, but I also connect with the Millennials’ drive for purpose and balance. And now, watching Gen Z and Gen Alpha emerge, I see something even more powerful, generations that are challenging norms, questioning outdated systems, and navigating a digital-first world with a level of awareness that previous generations didn’t have.
Let’s break it down:
The Generations & Their Defining Traits
Each generation has its own defining characteristics based on historical and cultural influences. While no one fits into a neat little box, there are patterns that shape how we interact with the world:
- The Silent Generation (1928–1945): Grew up during or just after the Great Depression and WWII. They value hard work, loyalty, and stability. Many were raised with the “keep your head down and work” mentality.
- Baby Boomers (1946–1964): The post-war generation. They had economic prosperity, home ownership, and job stability but were also known for rebellion in the ’60s and ’70s. Many Boomers still expect younger generations to follow the same life path, get a secure job, stay in it for decades, and retire comfortably.
- Gen X (1965–1980): The “latchkey kids.” We grew up more independent, resourceful, and skeptical of institutions. Gen X is known for being adaptable but also tends to have a strong work ethic and a bit of cynicism. We were the last generation to fully experience life before the internet, yet we’ve adapted to technology better than we’re given credit for.
- Xennials (Late 1970s–Early 1980s): The micro-generation caught between Gen X and Millennials. We had an analog childhood and a digital adulthood, making us one of the most adaptable generations. We grew up with landlines but also embraced social media and tech as it evolved.
- Millennials (1981–1996): The generation of purpose and work-life balance. Millennials are often criticized for being “entitled” or obsessed with avocado toast, but in reality, they were shaped by recessions, student debt, and a rapidly changing job market. They prioritize mental health, flexible work, and meaningful careers over the traditional corporate ladder.
- Gen Z (1997–2009): Digital natives. The first generation to grow up with smartphones and social media from a young age. They value inclusivity, mental health awareness, and social justice. They challenge outdated societal structures and aren’t afraid to call out hypocrisy.
- Gen Alpha (2010–2025): The youngest generation, born entirely into the digital era. They are growing up in a world where AI, remote learning, and digital connection are the norm. Gen Alpha is expected to be the most tech-savvy, socially aware, and entrepreneurial generation yet.
Why Gen Z and Gen Alpha Deserve More Credit
Despite the constant critiques, “Gen Z is lazy!” or “These kids don’t know what hard work is!”, “They’re soft”, or my most annoying one I see on my own city’s Facebook pages are “This generation are a bunch of snowflakes.” I personally think snowflakes are beautiful and very unique as there are no two the same! But I see something different. I see resilience. I see creativity. I see kids caring more about their grades and future way more then we did in the 90’s in high school, I see a generation that’s rewriting the rules.
- They Are More Emotionally Intelligent
Growing up with access to mental health resources, therapy, and open conversations about anxiety and self-worth has made Gen Z and Gen Alpha more emotionally aware than previous generations. They’re breaking generational cycles of silence around mental health, something Gen X and Boomers were often taught to suppress.
- They Challenge Outdated Norms
Gen Z is not afraid to question authority. Whether it’s in politics, social justice, or the workplace, they are demanding change. They won’t accept “this is just how it is.” Instead, they ask, “Why does it have to be this way?”
- They Value Work-Life Balance
Unlike Boomers and Gen X, who glorified hustle culture, Gen Z is prioritizing work-life balance from the start. They aren’t interested in grinding away at a corporate job just to burn out. Instead, they want meaningful work that aligns with their values.
- They Are Adaptable and Entrepreneurial
Gen Z and Gen Alpha are digital-first generations. They grew up with YouTube, TikTok, and online businesses, making them some of the most innovative self-starters. The traditional 9-to-5 is no longer the only option. Many are creating their own paths through side hustles, content creation, and digital entrepreneurship.
- They Have a Global Perspective
Unlike previous generations who were shaped by local or national events, Gen Z and Gen Alpha are global citizens. They’ve grown up with access to worldwide news, social movements, and different cultures at their fingertips. This exposure makes them more open-minded and socially aware.
Bridging the Gap Between Generations
Each generation has its strengths and challenges, but instead of criticizing younger generations for doing things differently, we should recognize the evolution of society and technology. Boomers and Gen X may have had different struggles, but that doesn’t mean Gen Z or Gen Alpha have it easier, it’s just different.
Instead of saying, “Back in my day, we worked harder,” or “We didn’t have heat days and no school, we suffered through the days with no air.” maybe we should be asking, “What can we learn from how Gen Z and Gen Alpha approach life?”
Watching my daughters grow up in this rapidly changing world gives me so much hope. They are smart, self-aware, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. And while every generation will always think the one after them has it easier, the truth is, they are just facing new challenges in ways we couldn’t have imagined.
Maybe, instead of tearing them down, it’s time we start giving them the credit they deserve!
What Do You Think?
What generation do you identify with the most? Do you see these differences in your own family? Let’s open the conversation, drop your thoughts in the comments!
Nikki Lanigan
Nikki Lanigan is a yoga, HIIT, and Barre instructor, she is also a Holistic Health Coach through Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Nikki is trained in Yoga Shred, Yoga Psychology, meditation, chakra balancing, and EFT/Tapping. She has done trainings with Sadie Nardini and Ashley Turner. She got her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2017 at the Carrie Treister School Of Yoga. Nikki takes a holistic view of health, helping her students and clients reach a place of self-love not just through movement, but with mindset and lifestyle guidance as well. Nikki is also show prep writer for The McVay Media Show Prep and host of the podcast Fit, Fun, and Frazzled. Connect with Nikki on Instagram. www.instagram.com/nikkilanigan.yogaandwellness www.instagram.com/fitfunandfrazzledpodcast
