Ever scratched your head in confusion when your Gen X boss, parent or mentor said something that seemed utterly bizarre?
Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering why they cling to certain behaviors and principles that seem outdated to you?
Here’s the scoop.
Generation X, those born between 1965 and 1980, are often seen as a bridge between the traditional values of the Baby Boomers and the progressive ideals of Millennials.
Yet, there are still some unwritten rules they live by that leave the under-30 crowd puzzled.
So, if you’re itching to decipher the Gen X code, this article will unveil seven of these baffling unwritten rules.
And who knows? Understanding these could just be your key to better communication and greater respect for this intriguing generation.
Remember, it’s not about pointing fingers or creating a generational divide. Rather, it’s about appreciating our differences and learning from one another.
So buckle up and get ready to dive into the intriguing world of Gen X.
1) Loyalty to one job
Ever noticed how your Gen X colleague, boss or parent has stayed loyal to the same job for years? Maybe even decades?
Here’s the thing.
For Generation X, changing jobs frequently is often seen as a red flag. They value stability and tend to stick with the same company for a longer period of time compared to younger generations.
In their book, it’s not just about climbing the career ladder. It’s about dedication, commitment and proving their worth over time.
This might seem foreign to younger generations who prioritize personal growth and opportunities over long-term loyalty.
This isn’t to say one approach is better than the other. It’s just a different perspective that can sometimes lead to a clash of expectations in the workplace.
So next time you’re puzzled by this Gen X trait, remember it’s an unwritten rule they live by – loyalty is golden.
2) Calling instead of texting
So, here’s a personal story.
Just last week, I needed some quick advice from my Gen X uncle.
Being a Millennial, my go-to move was to shoot him a text. After an hour of radio silence, I started to worry. It wasn’t until I finally decided to call him that he picked up on the first ring.
The thing is, Gen Xers tend to prefer phone calls over texts.
For them, a call is more personal and direct. The sound of a human voice allows for nuanced communication that emojis just can’t capture.
Plus, they actually enjoy the art of conversation!
For those of us under 30, this can be a tad bewildering. After all, we live in a world where texts, DMs, and tweets are the norm.
But remember, it’s just another unwritten rule that Gen X swear by – when in doubt, pick up the phone and dial.
3) The art of patience
Let’s talk about patience.
Generation X grew up in an era where instant gratification was not a thing. They didn’t have the internet to answer their every question, and they certainly couldn’t stream their favorite shows on demand.
They had to wait. And wait. And wait some more.
And you know what? They’re okay with that. In fact, they value it.
For them, good things come to those who wait. They understand the importance of patience, of letting things unfold naturally, of not rushing the process.
But for us under 30s, living in a world where everything is just a click away, this concept can be downright baffling. Why wait when you can have it now?
But here’s the thing: This unwritten rule of Gen X isn’t just about patience.
It’s also about appreciating the journey and not just the destination. It’s about understanding that there’s value in the process, not just the outcome.
Baffling? Maybe. But also, possibly a lesson worth learning.
4) Privacy is paramount
Ever wondered why your Gen X relative is so hesitant to share their life on social media?
Here’s why.
For Gen Xers, privacy is not just a preference – it’s an unwritten rule. They grew up in a time where personal matters were kept private, and oversharing was frowned upon.
Yes, they embrace technology, but they are cautious about what they share online. They value their privacy and are often more skeptical about the digital footprint they leave behind.
For those of us under 30, who document our lives on Instagram and communicate our thoughts via tweets, this can be hard to comprehend.
But remember, for Gen X, keeping a part of their lives private is not about being secretive; it’s about preserving their personal space in a rapidly changing digital world.
5) Cash over cards
Have you ever been out to dinner with a Gen Xer and watched them pull out cash to pay for the meal?
That’s because for many in this generation, cold hard cash still holds a special place.
You see, Gen Xers grew up in a time where carrying cash was the norm.
Credit and debit cards were not as common, and online banking? Well, that was simply unheard of.
In fact, according to a report by the Federal Reserve, Gen Xers are less likely than other generations to make mobile payments and are more inclined to use traditional methods like cash or checks.
For those of us under 30 who are accustomed to digital wallets, tap-and-go payments, and online transfers, this can seem archaic.
But remember, for many Gen Xers, cash isn’t just about money. It’s about control, tangibility, and a sense of security in an increasingly virtual world.
6) The value of face-to-face interactions
I’ll let you in on something.
Gen Xers hold a special reverence for face-to-face interactions. Sure, they’ve adapted to emails, video calls, and even social media.
But when it comes down to it, nothing quite beats a good old-fashioned face-to-face conversation for them.
For Gen X, looking someone in the eye, reading their body language, sharing a laugh or a moment of understanding – these are invaluable.
They believe that technology, while convenient, can’t quite replicate the human connection fostered through in-person interactions.
For those of us under 30, who’ve grown used to digital communication as a primary means of interaction, this might seem a bit excessive or even unnecessary.
But remember, this unwritten rule isn’t about rejecting technology. It’s about cherishing human connection in its purest form.
In our fast-paced digital world, there’s something quite beautiful about that, don’t you think?
7) Hard work over shortcuts
Here’s the most important thing you should know.
For Gen X, there’s no substitute for hard work. They believe in rolling up their sleeves and getting the job done, rather than looking for shortcuts or quick fixes.
This generation witnessed their parents working hard for everything they had. They saw the value of persistence and grit, and they’ve carried those lessons with them.
Younger generations, brought up in a world of life hacks and instant solutions, might find this mindset somewhat perplexing.
But for Gen X, it’s not just about the result. It’s about the effort you put into achieving it.
This unwritten rule isn’t about dismissing efficiency or innovation. It’s about respecting the process and recognizing that sometimes, the longest route often teaches us the most valuable lessons.
Final thoughts
As we navigate this diverse, inter-generational world, it’s important to remember that understanding is a two-way street.
If you’ve found yourself puzzled by these Gen X unwritten rules, you’re not alone.
But it doesn’t mean they’re wrong or outdated. They’re simply different perspectives shaped by a different time.
The beauty of our modern society lies in its rich tapestry of thoughts and behaviors.
Each generation brings something unique to the table, and there’s so much we can learn from each other.
So I invite you to reflect on these unwritten rules. Perhaps they’ve offered you a new insight into the Gen X mindset.
Or maybe they’ve even challenged some of your own beliefs.
Ultimately, the goal here is not to change or critique but to foster understanding and respect amongst us all.
Because at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to make sense of our place in this ever-evolving world.
And who knows? Maybe the next time you find yourself in a baffling Gen X situation, you’ll remember these unwritten rules and smile.
Because now you understand a little better. And understanding is always the first step towards harmony.
