This past weekend I went to a small, locally owned shop that I frequent not too far from my home to grab a coffee. While waiting in line, I struck up a conversation with Kaitlyn, a local accountant at a small manufacturing plant. We both liked the same brew, so that common bond led us to other conversation pathways, one of which was our concern about the generation after her.
She described how her employer hired a recent accounting graduate. Her supervisor attempted to teach the lad their IT system, but the young man kept looking at his phone, barely paying attention to the supervisor who was trying to engage him. Kaitlyn said, “He won’t last long.” I asked how on earth the grad was selected in the first place and she said he had a great GPA and terrific personality! She was thoroughly disgusted with the matter and told me that at 34, she was fortunate to be raised by parents that taught her the value of a dollar. (She grimaced to think what they would say if they knew she spent almost $4 for her coffee!)
I smiled and told her I understood what she meant and that I called her upbringing one with many “old world values.” She asked me to tell her more and I went on to say that being raised with old world values meant growing up with a deep appreciation for traditions, respect for elders, and a strong sense of community. This standard stressed the importance of hard work, integrity, humility, family bonds, hospitality, and learning through stories passed down through generations. Old world values embody traditions that cherish meaningful relationships and simple pleasures with old and dear friends.
I asked her if she thought those younger than her, in their 20’s, grasp the traditions and values she holds so close. She pondered the question and said “it depends.” And then I got an education! She said there are many reasons some don’t. First, she said society emphasizes innovation and a faster pace of life so there is less emphasis on community bonds and traditional customs. She blamed the rise in technology and social media causing information overload about current trends which replace past traditions. And second, she said in some ways, pursuing college education can take professionals away from family and community. She sighed and closed with this: These values just aren’t relevant to their daily lives and their life goals. And she shook her head.
What do you think? Do you work with those in their 20’s? Have you had an experience with this generation that is memorable? Please share with us at [email protected].
We are watching Hurricane Beryl’s next move, expected to make landfall this morning (July 8) along the central Texas coast as a Category 1 Hurricane. Here’s the latest from Gallagher Re Analytics.
Next up is a terrific assortment of the latest news from the disaster insurance and recovery industry, along with some timeless insights!
LMA Newsletter of 7-8-24
