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

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Generational Challenges

May 20 2025

World Day for Cultural Diversity: Tips to Cultivate Inclusion

On May 21st—UNESCO’s World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development – we celebrate the richness of our shared human experiences and the power of stories to bridge generational gaps! Whether it’s a cherished family recipe, a song that defined your childhood, or a proverb passed from grandparent to grandchild, these moments of cultural exchange remind us that diversity isn’t just a concept—it’s essential to connection.

As we honor cultural diversity, let’s pause to recognize how each of us carries a unique blend of backgrounds and experiences. From the traits we’re born with to the beliefs we choose, every layer of our identity shapes how we see the world – and how we welcome others into it.

In the spirit of May 21st, let’s lean into curiosity, discuss the four faces of diversity, and consider simple ways to invite diversity and connection daily!

Cultural Diversity

The Four Faces of Diversity

Broadly speaking, diversity can be grouped into four categories, and each of them shapes how we connect across generations. These four are: 

  • Internal Diversity: Traits we’re born with, like race, ethnicity, gender, nationality, or physical ability. These immutable characteristics often guide our earliest experiences in the world.
  • External Diversity: Elements we acquire or choose—education, religion, socioeconomic status, marital status, appearance, or where we live. These factors can shift over time and reflect our changing life circumstances.
  • Organizational Diversity: Differences in role, department, seniority, or professional background. In many workplaces, entire teams can share the same experience lens unless we intentionally mix up functions and levels.
  • Worldview Diversity: The broadest category of all—our beliefs, political leanings, cultural values, and travel experiences. Worldview diversity fuels innovation and keeps us forward-focused by challenging our assumptions.

Inviting Diversity and Connection Daily

You don’t need grand events or large budgets to cultivate an inclusive environment. Try these approachable ideas:

  • Invite a “Cultural Moment”: Start meetings or gatherings by inviting someone to share a piece of their heritage – whether it’s a saying/motto, a favorite snack, or a special playlist. It’s a five-minute window into another world that sparks curiosity and conversation.
  • Ask “What Would My Future Self Do?”: Whenever a challenge arises – big or small – pause and ask, “How would my grandmother/grandfather handle this?” or “What would my wiser, future self do?” It’s a playful way to tap into collective wisdom.
  • Mix Up Your Social Media: Follow social accounts, podcasts, and book clubs representing voices beyond your usual circles. Actively seeking out new viewpoints trains your mind to appreciate nuance and complexity.
  • Host a “Culture Exchange” Lunch: Grab a coworker or friend whose background is different from yours and trade favorite recipes (or takeout suggestions). Breaking bread together is one of the oldest and most delicious ways to connect! 

Bringing generational and cultural diversity into our daily lives doesn’t require grand gestures – just small, intentional steps that open doors to empathy and understanding. When we listen to stories from different walks of life, we not only expand our horizons but also invite connections across age groups and identities. In celebrating the diversity of who we are and where we come from, we cultivate an energy that empowers us all to learn, grow, and stand stronger together! 

Written by Meagan · Categorized: Generational Challenges, Understanding Generations in the Workplace

Apr 15 2025

World Art Day: How Creativity Connects Generations

April 15 is World Art Day – a global celebration of creativity, curiosity, and connection. While it might not come with cake or confetti (although I highly encourage both), it does give us a chance to reflect on the role art plays in our lives – and across our generations!

According to UNESCO, art nurtures innovation, cultural diversity, empathy, and peace. Sounds lofty, right? But it’s also incredibly personal. Whether it’s finger painting with your toddler, journaling at midnight, or zoning out to Bob Ross reruns (Happy Little Trees, anyone?), art reminds us to slow down, tune in, and let go of perfection. And in our overstimulated, overbooked, multi-tabbed world? That’s your superpower!

world art day

Art Across the Ages

Each generation has had its relationship with creativity – shaped by culture, context, and, yes, available supplies.

  • Boomers may recall art class as an escape from long division and an excuse to use paste with reckless abandon. Many grew up with traditional art forms like sketching, oil painting, or sewing.
  • Gen X turned angst into art with zines, graffiti, and the ultimate mixtape masterpieces (if you know, you know).
  • Millennials revolutionized DIY with Pinterest boards and side hustles in hand lettering, resin, and digital illustration.
  • Gen Z? They’re remixing content, creating memes with existential depth, and proving that creativity now lives just as easily on an iPad as it does on a canvas.

But no matter the method, one thing remains true: art helps us make sense of ourselves and each other.

And while we tend to associate art with kids or creatives, let me say this loud for the people in the back – adults need art too. Not because we’re trying to win an award, but because creativity is an incredible way to reduce stress, regulate emotions, and rediscover parts of ourselves that may have gotten lost between meetings and microwave dinners.

3 Art Activities That Require Zero Artistic Skill

(Reminder: There are no mistakes in art! Just a willingness to be a little brave and a little messy.)

  • Mood Mandalas
    Draw a circle and divide it into wedges like a pizza. Fill each section with patterns or colors that reflect how you feel – no need for symmetry – just honesty.
    Why it helps: This rhythmic drawing pattern soothes anxiety and gives shape to inner feelings.
  • Color a Playlist
    Play two or three songs you love. Use colors to express what each one feels like – big swirls for joy, sharp lines for frustration, soft hues for calm.
    Why it helps: Engaging your senses and emotions together helps reset your nervous system.
  • 5-Minute Free Draw
    Set a timer. Choose a prompt like “freedom,” “this week,” or “my inner weather.” Draw without stopping, judging, or erasing.
    Why it helps: Quick bursts of creativity quiet the inner critic and open the door to intuition.

Art is Your Superpower! 

You don’t need expensive supplies, a studio, or an art degree to tap into the benefits of creative expression. All you need is a scrap of paper, a pen, and the willingness to be curious.

In a world where generations are often divided by digital habits, trends, or how we define “work ethic,” art offers a rare invitation to slow down and connect – not by debating, but by doing. Because the real magic of art isn’t what you make – it’s connecting with yourself and your power. 

Written by Meagan · Categorized: Generational Challenges, Understanding Generations in the Workplace

Dec 09 2024

Self-Care Strategies for All Generations

Elf himself will inspire self-care strategies for spreading cheer during this holiday season 🙂

As the weather gets colder in the Arizona desert and we begin to prepare for a busy month, Meagan wanted to share some holiday tips inspired by one of her favorite holiday movies: Elf! 🎄✨

self-care strategies for all generations

Did you know? “The original script for Elf was written with Jim Carrey in mind for the lead role, but it sat in production limbo for a decade before eventually being picked up by Ferrell.”

In this 2003 holiday classic, Buddy the Elf’s contagious enthusiasm reminds us, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” While Buddy’s holiday spirit resonates with some, others may find this season overwhelming.

Holiday Spirit & Stress

According to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people report increased stress during this time due to financial strain, time crunches, and family obligations. “The holiday season sparks conflicting feelings as over two in five U.S. adults (43%) would use both positive and negative words to describe the holidays, and 72% agree that the holiday season can feel bittersweet.” Recognizing these challenges allows us to create intentional moments of self-care and multigenerational connection.

Buddy-Approved Self-Care Strategies for a Jolly Season

The National Institute of Mental Health describes self-care as “taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical and mental health.” Let’s borrow a page from Buddy’s playbook and add some fun to our holiday self-care routines!

1. Have a “Buddy” Day!
Spend a day doing only things that bring you joy. Whether it’s rewatching Elf, indulging in your favorite holiday treats (maybe holding the spaghetti with syrup), or crafting DIY decorations, dedicate time to activities that light up your spirit.

2. Spread Cheer Through Acts of Kindness
Buddy loves making others smile! Channel his enthusiasm by surprising coworkers with handwritten notes or sharing cookies with neighbors. Studies show that acts of kindness boost mental well-being. For inspiration, download the Mental Health Foundation 50 random acts of kindness poster here.

3. Dance It Out
Turn up the holiday music and have a dance party! Whether you’re swaying to “Jingle Bell Rock” or Buddy’s favorite “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” moving your body releases endorphins and reduces stress. “Dance is an antidote to stress, a way to combat negative emotions, an elixir for the body, mind, and brain,” write Christensen and Dong-Seon Chang—an Argentine tango dancer and swing dancer—in their 2021 book Dancing Is the Best Medicine.

Self-Care Strategies for All Generations

The holidays look different for everyone, so customize your self-care to meet your needs:

  • Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to overpacked schedules. Declining a few invitations can make space for meaningful moments. We get it… FOMO is real and saying no can be hard! BetterUp® helped by sharing 50 different ways to say no politely. 
  • Stay Active: Take a family walk to admire holiday lights or join a virtual yoga class. Physical activity helps reduce stress. “Exercise and sports also provide opportunities to get away from it all and to either enjoy some solitude or to make friends and build networks.”
  • Schedule “Quiet Time”: Dedicate time to recharge. It could be journaling, meditating, or even taking a nap. “Harshman explains that relaxation is not about doing more to do less, or about pursuing a specific form of relaxation that you may not like. Instead, relaxation is giving your mind and body a break to restore your energy, support your cognitive function and regulate your mood.”
  • Keep It Balanced: Savor holiday treats but don’t skip meals. A balanced diet supports your mood and energy levels.
  • Unplug from Technology: Designate tech-free evenings to focus on in-person connections or personal relaxation. “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” —Anne Lamott

Mental Health Resources 

If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to seek professional help. Here are some trusted resources to support mental health during the holidays:

  • American Psychological Association
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
  • BetterHelp

This holiday season, let’s take inspiration from Buddy and find joy in the little things. Whether it’s singing loud for all to hear or simply taking a mindful moment to yourself, self-care can make the busy season brighter. Remember: the best way to spread holiday cheer is by being kind—to yourself and others!

Written by Meagan · Categorized: Generational Challenges, Understanding Generations in the Workplace

Sep 13 2024

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!

  • Build a Strong Culture, Even Remotely: Create opportunities for virtual team-building, social events, and casual interactions. Make sure everyone feels connected and supported, even virtually.
  • Clear Communication is Key: Set clear expectations, use silence as a conversational tool, and encourage open communication.
  • Prioritize Mentorship & Development: Offer virtual mentorship programs, online training, and opportunities for growth. Invest in Gen Z’s future, and they’ll invest in yours.
  • Encourage Work-Life Balance: Promote healthy boundaries, flexible schedules, and self-care. Happy employees are productive employees!

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?

Written by Meagan · Categorized: Generation Z, Generational Challenges

Aug 26 2024

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  

  • Starting off strong with the Silent Generation, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat in 1955. It sparked a monumental change, proving that even small acts of resistance can reverberate in prolific ways. This was a pivotal victory, but it was not an end to the struggle for women’s rights. 
  • Boomers were blessed with pioneering feminists like Gloria Steinem. She co-founded Ms Magazine, putting conversations about gender equality, reproductive rights and social justice in the spotlight.
  • Gen X instilled a sense of independence and resilience, with trailblazers like Dr. Mae Jemison. She was the first African American woman to be admitted into NASA’s astronaut training program in 1987. “Jemison made history again on September 12, 1992, when she flew into space aboard the Endeavour on mission STS47. She became the first Black woman in space.” 
  • Millennials were inspired by Malala Yousafzai, an education activist. She survived an assassination attempt at age 15 and became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014! Wow.
  • Gen Z was recently represented by young athletes like 11 year old skateboarder Zheng Haohao. She was the youngest 2024 Olympic athlete, but also the People’s Republic of China’s youngest ever Olympian! 

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!

Written by Meagan · Categorized: Generational Challenges

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