Meagan Johnson - Generational Speaker

Solve Your Challenges and Bridge the Gap between Generations at Your Multigenerational Workforce

Meagan

October: The Most Productive Month

October is considered the most productive month. We go from the summer slump to a fall focus! That means… Reflect, Recommit, and Reset!

Goodbye summer, hello Autumn (unless you’re like Meagan and live in the Arizona desert 🥵)! We’re getting excited for all things fall, the weather getting cooler, and the upcoming holidays. Those feelings are often accompanied by a sense of urgency to get things done before the end of the year. Lucky for us, Autumn comes with some added ambition. According to a study by Accountemps, 48% of professionals feel most productive in the fall! More specifically, research shares that October is our most productive month, followed by November and September. Maybe it’s those back-to-school vibes ingrained in us since childhood, the pumpkin spice lattes invigorating our senses, or the looming holiday deadlines that unite us in a common goal of “getting it all done,” but something about fall just makes us want to conquer the world.

the most productive month

Summer can be a whirlwind of vacations, extra family time, and late nights. On the other hand, fall invites a sense of structure and balance, which can do wonders for our productivity. Research in psychology shows that people are more likely to commit to change when they perceive the start of a new season as an opportunity to reset and renew. 

You might be thinking, “Meagan, how does this relate to generations?” Well, here’s the thing: while each generation may have its unique quirks and preferences (like Boomers and their love for fax machines, or Gen Z and their obsession with all things digital), we all share the desire to achieve our goals and make a meaningful impact. And fall, with its inherent focus on productivity and self-improvement, provides the perfect opportunity for us to come together, ditch the stereotypes, and support each other. Think about it: instead of revisiting the tired old narratives about “lazy Millennials” or “tech-challenged Boomers,” let’s use this fall season to be curious and connect. 

Reflect and Reassess 

Before you start getting ahead and planning for 2025, make time to reflect on 2024. Some questions to consider:

  • What goals have I achieved? 
  • What was my biggest success so far? 
  • What didn’t go as planned? 
  • What do I need to do more of? Or less of? 
  • What have I learned about myself? 

Reflect on your accomplishments that truly made a difference this year. Don’t be shy about celebrating those wins – you earned them! Once you’ve celebrated, turn your attention to those areas where things didn’t quite go according to plan. Instead of beating yourself up about it, approach those areas with empathy and understanding. By embracing our mistakes with kindness, we can become aware of the valuable lessons and reassess as needed. 

Recommit and Refresh

Fall is the perfect time to shake things up, try something new, and inject some fresh energy into your routine. Here are a few ideas:

Reset and Renew (aka Time for Some Serious Self-Care)

A personal reset is about consciously pausing and reassessing different areas of your life. It involves looking at various elements such as your mental health, physical wellness, social connections, and personal hobbies. It’s about finding harmony and alignment in these areas to create a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Let’s not forget that fall is also a time for cozy vibes and prioritizing your well-being. Embrace the shorter days and cooler weather by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere at home and at work. Light some scented candles, curl up with a good book, and allow yourself to recharge. Instead of aiming for grand resolutions, consider setting intentions that align with the spirit of fall—letting go, saying goodbye to what no longer serves you, and welcoming new possibilities. In any season, it’s important to take care of the person who you spend the most time with (yourself). Embrace the extra energy, set intentions, ditch the stereotypes, and ask for support when you need it. And hey, don’t forget to treat yourself to a pumpkin spice latte (or three) along the way. You deserve it! 🧡

Is Working Remotely Ruining Gen Z’s Chance of a Promotion?

Who is Gen Z, Specifically?

Technically, we encourage you to care about every generation, but today we’re talking about Gen Z! Born after Millennials (1981-1996) and before Gen-Alpha (2010-2025), Gen Z was born roughly between 1997-2010. Gen Z is the first generation of “digital natives” and has never known a world without cell phones or the internet. They’ve watched technology rapidly evolve and faced unprecedented challenges, from a global pandemic to a cost-of-living crisis, which will later be understood as unique generational signposts.  

“With the Covid pandemic, opportunities disappeared for the kind of part-time employment and internships that undergraduates were once able to have to build their résumés. We finish college now with a diploma in hand. Still, lacking the real-world experience and credentials for which employers look,” Nathan Biller, a graduate of Colgate University, wrote in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal.

Fast forward to 2024 and many organizations are still trying to navigate this landscape of remote work. And guess who else is feeling it? Yup – Gen Z. They’re joining the workforce during this weird in-between transition, and we could offer some support and mentorship!

Working Remotely: Gen Z’s Dream or Nightmare?

Working Remotely

Here are a few benefits from WFH: 

  • More professional opportunities for people with accessibility needs (when commuting is difficult or impossible)
  • Less commuting expenses and less commuting time (more time for other priorities)
  • Ability to reduce stress by taking breaks for self-care, or spending time with loved ones 
  • Ability to help with caregiving, if an older or younger family is at home

But, on the other hand, here are some challenges:

  • More difficulty finding support networks and career networks (lack of face-to-face relationship building) 
  • Screen and Zoom/Teams fatigue 
  • Greater burnout risk (from unclear scheduling, unrealistic expectations, or a lack of boundaries)
  • Risk of isolation and lack of connection 

Setting Gen Z Up for Success: Let’s Zap The Gap!

Reflecting on these points, we encourage you to make an effort to update your current virtual landscape as we see that it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. “Remote work is the new reality, and Gen Z is leading the charge. According to the World Economic Forum, Gen-Z will account for more than a quarter of the workforce by 2025, and they will be a force to reckon with.” By understanding our evolving needs and adapting our workplaces, we can create an inclusive future, no matter where they’re working from.  

“If we combine the workforce’s post-pandemic desire for autonomy and freedom with great managing that matches the needs of the new workforce—and customers—we could create the most engaging and inspiring workplace cultures imaginable,” he says. “The changes brought about by the pandemic have created remarkable opportunities for organizations to manage, motivate, and get more productivity and customer focus out of their workforces than ever before. While there are significant challenges, many organizations have already shown this is possible.” – Dr. Jim Harter Will you be a catalyst for change, support Gen Z as they navigate this new landscape, and Zap the Generational Gap with me?

Women’s Equality Day: Recognizing Revolutionary Women

Happy Women’s Equality Day!

”On Women’s Equality Day, we recognize the courage of generations of visionaries who fought tirelessly for the sacred cause of women’s suffrage. Also for those who continue to work toward a more equitable future for women and girls in America.”

Women’s Equality Day

It’s a day to reflect on the incredible impact women of all ages have had on shaping our world. From the suffragettes to the athletes breaking barriers in the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics. For the first time in history, the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games shared an equal number of men and women competing. What a win for women!

Let’s recognize a few revolutionary women together… 

Gratitude Across Generations  

Women’s Equality Day – from the Olympics to the Paralympics

Speaking of boundary-breakers, let’s cheer on all awe-inspiring women competing in the upcoming 2024 Paralympics in Paris on August 28th – September 8th. Athletes like Oksana Masters, a multi-sport Paralympian with over a dozen medals to her name. She exemplifies the strength, determination, and sheer grit of women. Women like Oksana continue to redefine what it means to be an athlete. She inspires us all to push beyond our limits. 

Our collective journey towards equality can be compared to a relay race, with each generation passing the torch to the next. The wisdom and experience of older generations can guide and inspire younger women, while the fresh perspectives and energy of younger generations can ignite new possibilities.

Are you cultivating a culture of mentorship, where all ages can learn, grow, and support each other through their unique journeys?

Humor: The Universal Language of Connection

As a generational enthusiast and humorist, I genuinely believe in the power of laughter to break barriers and build connections across all genders and generations. I encourage all organizations and associations to use humor as a way of creating a more welcoming and inclusive culture.

When we share laughter, we build bonds and create a sense of belonging, making humor a potent and powerful connector. “Shared laughter signals that they see the world in the same way… Perceived similarity ends up being an important part of the story of relationships.” – Sara Algoe

Use humor to bridge generational gaps, spark meaningful conversations, and create a welcoming environment for everyone. Our fight for equality is an ongoing journey, and we all have a part to play. Let’s honor the trailblazers who paved the way, celebrate the women who are making history today, and empower the next generation to continue pushing boundaries!

Baby Boomers Recognition Day: From Woodstock to the Olympics

As the Olympics come to an epic conclusion and we await the extremely impressive Paralympics (August 28th – September 8th), we want to bring awareness to Baby Boomers Recognition Day! Can you guess why Baby Boomers Recognition Day is observed on August 16th?

If you had any inclination around Woodstock, you are correct!

Baby Boomers Recognition Day is a cultural reference to Woodstock that took place back on August 15th – 18th, 1969. Let’s take the time together to recognize the generation that brought us peace signs, disco balls, and the enduring wisdom that age is just a number. And speaking of age being just a number, shout out to every Boomer who keeps proving that you’re never too old to chase your dreams – even Olympic dreams! 

The ‘Boom’ That Echoed Through the Decade

Let’s rewind the clock to the aftermath of World War II… Soldiers returned home, hope filled the air, and families grew… 76 million babies later! Born between 1946 and 1964, this generation quite literally boomed onto the scene. They grew up in a world of hula hoops, drive-in movies, and the electrifying birth of rock ‘n’ roll. Here are some defining moments for baby boomers: 

  1. 1960s Cultural Revolution: From Woodstock to the Summer of Love, Boomers drove social change
  2. Civil Rights Movement: Many Boomers were active participants in the fight for racial equality
  3. Space Race: Boomers witnessed the first manned space missions and moon landing
  4. Vietnam War: This conflict deeply impacted the Boomer generation, both those who served and those who protested
  5. Technological Advancements: From the first personal computers to the internet, Boomers adapted to rapid technological change

These defining moments can also be seen as generational signposts that molded Boomers into the resilient, driven, and sometimes even rebellious individuals they are. In Gen-Expert Meagan Johnson’s “Zap the Generational Gap” presentation, Meagan shares more information about generational signposts and how they follow us into the workforce. 

Boomer Traits: More Than Just Rock n Roll 

So, what defines a Boomer?

  • Work ethic: Often labeled “workaholics,” Boomers value hard work, dedication, and pride themselves in their work. 
  • Idealism: This is the generation that fought for civil rights, women’s liberation, and environmental protection. They dreamed big and weren’t afraid to challenge the status quo.
  • Loyalty: Boomers cherish long-term relationships and commitments, whether it’s to a spouse, a company, or their beloved four-legged companions.

Of course, we can’t talk about Boomers without addressing a few common stereotypes:

Baby Boomers Recognition

The Power of Recognition: It’s Not Just for Boomers

Baby Boomers Recognition Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this trailblazing generation, both at home and in the workforce. But it’s also a reminder that recognition is a universal human need, regardless of age or generation. 

Recognition isn’t just about trophies and awards. It’s about feeling seen, heard, and valued. It’s about knowing that our contributions matter and that our presence makes a difference. And when we feel recognized, we’re more likely to be engaged, motivated, and productive. So, let’s make every day a recognition day, and let’s keep “Zapping the Generational Gap” with appreciation and respect! 

P.S. – The oldest athlete to compete in the 2024 Olympics was Baby Boomer Juan Antonio Jimenez Cobo of Spain, who is 65. Amazing! And he wasn’t the only Baby Boomer competing! 🏇🏼🤩👏🏻 

Diving into the Olympics: Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together

It’s that special time of the year when America comes together to cheer for the USA for nearly 3 weeks! “The theatrical, four-hour ceremony that aired live on Friday afternoon in the U.S. came in 10 million viewers higher than NBCUniversal’s coverage of the Tokyo opening ceremony in 2021 and more than 2 million higher than Rio in 2016, according to NBCUniversal.” The history behind the Olympics is fascinating and dense!

Olympics: diving in

Olympics Fostered Unity and Understanding

The ancient Greeks believed that the Olympics fostered unity and understanding among others, which is the overall point we want to discuss. The original values of Olympism as expressed in the Olympic Charter were to “encourage effort”, “preserve human dignity” and “develop harmony”. Over time, they have evolved and are now expressed in more contemporary terms as:

  • Striving for excellence and encouraging people to be the best they can be.
  • Demonstrating respect in many different manners: respect towards yourself, the rules, your opponents, the environment, the public, etc.
  • Celebrating friendship, which is quite unique to the Olympic Games – an event that brings people together every few years.

“The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of humankind, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity.”

Today, that same spirit can help us zap the generational gaps and differences we face in our multigenerational workplaces. So, how can we channel our inner Olympians to create a more connected and collaborative environment? Let’s share some ideas… 

Striving for Excellence: In a S.M.A.R.T Way 

It’s important to emphasize that excellence is never about being perfect; perfection is not a realistic goal. Striving for excellence is about growing to the best version of yourself, inside and outside of work.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” ― Aristotle

Demonstrating Respect: You & Your Words Matter

In the spirit of the Olympics, respect means valuing everyone, regardless of their background, experience, or opinions.

By fostering a respectful environment, both in-person and online, you’ll create a workplace where everyone feels safe to share their ideas and contribute their unique talents.

Celebrating Friendship: Zapping the Gap Across the Generations

Just like the Olympics bring together athletes from all walks of life, our workplaces are best suited when they reflect openness and diversity.

By embracing the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship, we can transform our workplaces and the future generations to come. We tie our time together with the new Olympic motto, as of July 2021: “Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter” “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.”