Every generation has their own unique lived experience that shapes how they communicate. Which would be fine except for that you probably live or work with someone way older or way younger than you are.
University of Illinois Extension family life educator Sara Attig is here to help. She’ll be leading a program Oct. 15 at the Carlock Public Library to demystify the Generational Gap – especially around communication.
“It can seem very polarizing. What we really want to focus on [is] understanding the different generations without being stereotypical, and understanding how we can really thrive by understanding the strengths that each generation brings,” Attig said.
Some of these intergenerational communication gaps are light-hearted, even funny. Imagine a 10-year-old who’s fluent in brain rot brushing up against her Baby Boomer grandparents.
But some are more serious. In the workplace, for example, younger Boomers nearing the end of their career might be working alongside older Gen Zs.
“There can be some opportunities for miscommunication and misunderstanding based on generational differences, but it also opens up the opportunity for really growth and strength in the organization. To be able to have different viewpoints, different backgrounds, and focusing on the strengths that all of those different working generations can bring, and not isolating based on those differences,” Attig said.
At the Oct. 15 program, Attig says you’ll gain practical tools to better understand generational dynamics and foster more inclusive, respectful relationships—whether at work, at home, or in your community.
Groovy, Rad, Dope, or Lit? Staying "Cool" Across the Generations is set for 1:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Carlock Public Library [202 E. Washington St, Carlock]. Register by calling the library at (309) 376-5651.
