Every generation at a particular given time has certain characteristics on account of its lifestyles, attitudes and opportunities available at that point of time. Their environment influences their personalities and also their involvement. A similar situation applies to the baby boomer generation who have distinct characteristics, which have been formulated on account of the conditions that this baby generation grew up.
The overall prosperity that existed during the baby boomer generation led to the baby boomer generation to take on challenging pursuits. This was an age of space exploration, plenty of opportunities to discover new avenues in work arena. The late 1940s and 50s, that is post 2nd World War period as time of prosperity, stability both socially and economically leading to prosperity for Americans; thus, many could dabble into various activities that could satiate their adventurous needs. No doubt, on account of racial tensions in the US, and the onset of the Vietnam war and the self-exploratory as well as the peace movement during the 1960 era, the overall identity of the baby boomers generation became very complex.
The baby boomer generation was gaining social and economic recognition, but had to emerge at a time when there were differing views about social, economic conditions and politics.
What are the baby boomer characteristics?
- The baby boomer generation was optimistic, focused on achievements and a very positive generation.
- It is also a generation of exploration and the post 2nd World War optimism led to educational and career interests.
- Many members of this generation relocated themselves to far off places in order to undertake their educational interests and career pursuits. They were enterprising and adventurous.
- They believe in certain values such as:
- Individual choice.
- Prosperity.
- Community involvement.
- Ownership.
- Prosperity.
- Well-being and good health.
- Self- promotion in terms of achievement.
- They also have very good attributes such as :
- They are goal oriented.
- Very adaptive by nature.
- Their focus is on adapting to a diverse environment.
- Their attitude is always positive.
- Their work-styles are very organized with the following features:
- They emphasize on confidence building.
- They have lot of confidence in performing tasks.
- Emphasis is given on team building.
- Collaborative attitude in work place.
- Decision is in group form.
- Conflicts are avoided.
- Although equality among races was promoted by the baby boomers, the minorities among them were subjected to poverty.
- Differences are there in personal wealth as well as income.
- Focus of the baby boomers has been on the development process. They have also taken interest in ensuring the stress levels and depression and anxiety levels of those suffering from financial or family distress are dealt with compassion and understanding.
- Although baby boomers are considered to be positive in their outlook, yet they are worried about their retirement and where they would get their finances from. They experience anxiety about their future.
- Quite a large number baby boomers want to work after 65 years for monetary as well as identity reasons.
- They believe in helping the aged through various social services and also deal with family issues such as depression, self-esteem as well as anxiety.
What are the achievement characteristics of baby boomers?
- Many are legal experts, working as corporate executives. Almost 70 percent of the law firms have baby boomers working for them.
- They are retiring in large numbers.
- They are extremely hard working and are motivated by prestige, position as well as perks.
- They have work ethics and are committed to their work.
- They are self-reliant and independent by nature.
- They are willing to take on confrontation and take up challenges.
- Baby boomers are clever as well as resourceful.
- Efforts are made to make mark at their workplace.
- The willingness to take up challenging projects is there in them.
The baby boomers, the largest US generation have been enterprising and have contributed towards the society as a whole. They have attained distinction in various fields of work, especially law. No doubt, since they spent their earnings due to booming economy of 1980s and became concerned about their old age. They prefer to work post-retirement on account of their zeal to achieve more in life and also add income to their existing earnings. It is but obvious that even in their old age they retain their urge to do something constructive in life.
