What is the difference between "Gen-Xers" and "the Millenials"?

Question

Also, is there a generation that exists between these groups? When is the cut-off date for being considered Gen-x? Does any one know the time frames of date of birth for both generations?
Also, if you know of the defined characteristics of both generations, that info would be interesting to know.

Answer 1

Don't have time to research, but here's what I know...

I'm a Gen-X'er (one of the older ones). Our generation was disillusioned with our parent's generation. Both parents often worked, so no one was around and we had to fend for ourselves (making us resilient and independent). As parents, we have vowed to be different and be more emotionally connected.

The Baby Boomers tended to focus on enjoying their lives, as if there was no cost to pay. We focused more on the deeper questions of life. Job security (like the old days) doesn't exist for us. We simply go where we are needed and interested in. Life is very transient.

You see a lot of existential angst in my generation, soul-searching, inner seeking, ability to imagine and create.

Our children / the current batch of kids have benefited from our stable family life and commitment to them, but in some ways have it too easy. Technology has made their lives comfortable and prosperous. They tend to be easy going and are not really concerned about adhering to (or notice) any form of social etiquette. They have not been forced to struggle much, because of what we tried to give them.

Still, they are much more interconnected than we are -- more potential for community. Diversity rules. Nothing is certain. Anything can be explored. (This is both good and bad.)

Wish I had more time to write... it's a fascinating topic.

Answer 2

Gen-Xer's are Vietnam war era babies...60's through 75. The following generation was Generation "Y".

Gen-Xer's are cynical, hate the Baby Boomer's for having all the "good" jobs and for screwing up the country. They like or did like Heavy Metal, New Wave and Grunge music. Gen-X was the last generation to have known a world without computers.

Gen "Y" are the first "On-Line" generation. Their less cynical, more hedoistic and commercial oriented. They like Rap music and wouldn't be caught dead without their cell phone.

Millenials are still too young to "generalize" about. I belive that they can be concidered starting at or around the end of the Clinton era.

Answer 3

gen- X ers are abt. 25 to 35 by this time. i don't really care to know much abt. the millenials youre talking abt. but i do work at an ad agency so we do define people segments. but these days, the younger generation seem lost.
i hope this sorry situation improves, and fast.!
Actually, there's this prevailing concern that the newer generations doesnt seem to stand for anything except reckless individuality... smoking, drugs, booze, hate, uninspired.. etc. alarming really.