Thrilled to be Featured in a Reader’s Digest Article Talking Generational Identity
If you’ve ever found yourself not quite fitting into the generation you’re assigned—or wondered why your habits don’t match the memes(!)—you’re not alone. As a generational researcher, one of the questions I get asked all the time is: “Which generation am I really in?” And it’s a great question—because the answer isn’t always as simple as matching your birth year to a label.
That’s why I was excited to be featured in Reader’s Digest to talk about this very topic and share why so many people don’t feel like they fit neatly into a single generational category.
As I shared in the article, “The years that mark generations are hotly debated, which has led to a lot of confusion.” In fact, about a third of Americans identify more with the generation just before or after their own. And many people fall into what we call cuspers—those born on the edges of two generations who carry traits from both. These unique “micro-generations” make sense when you think about how quickly the world changes, especially during our formative years.
In truth, one of the biggest shifts we are seeing in our work right now is that “The time frame for each generation keeps getting shorter, so new generations are popping up faster and faster.” Rapid advancements in technology—combined with global events, evolving culture, and parenting trends—are reshaping how and when generations form. And that’s having a big impact on how people see themselves and connect across age groups.
That’s why I often say: Generations aren’t boxes—they’re powerful, predictive clues. They offer a starting point to better understand people and build connections across age groups, industries, and life stages. Whether you’re leading a team, marketing a product, or just trying to decode your family’s group chat, generational insights can be a powerful bridge.
So, if you’re wondering where you land, here’s a quick, lighthearted guide inspired by the Reader’s Digest piece to help you learn more:
- The Greatest Generation (1901–1927): Shaped by the Great Depression and WWII, they defined resilience, responsibility, and sacrifice.
They also might be the reason you know how to mend a sock, plant a garden, or respect a hard day’s work. - The Silent Generation (1928–1945): Quiet trailblazers who built the suburbs and sparked rock and roll, often while wearing sensible shoes.
If you’ve ever heard someone say “back in my day…” with authority, this might be their day. - Baby Boomers (1946–1964): Raised on prosperity and protest, they transformed culture, consumerism, and what it meant to be “young.”
Also: they remember when phone numbers started with letters—and when avocado toast was just called breakfast. - Generation X (1965–1980): The original latchkey kids, raised on MTV and microwave dinners, fluent in both independence and irony.
If you still have a mixtape or know how to program a VCR, this might be your generation. - Xennials (1977–1983): The “in-between” micro-generation who lived before the internet but helped build the digital world.
Think Lisa Frank binders, Oregon Trail survival skills, and texting with punctuation. - Millennials (1981–1996): Purpose-driven, highly educated, and tech-dependent, not tech-savvy.
They invented the side hustle, love experiences over things, and can still remember their AIM away message. - Zillennials (1993–1998): Caught between Millennials and Gen Z—equal parts idealistic and skeptical, analog roots with digital instincts.
They probably remember life before smartphones, but not before the internet. - Generation Z (1997–2012): The first true digital natives—emotionally open, socially conscious, and deeply pragmatic.
They expect authenticity from brands, inclusivity from institutions, and would rather text than talk (always). - Generation Alpha (2013–2024): Still growing up, but already fluent in AI, smart devices, and YouTube tutorials.
If you’ve ever been schooled by a toddler on how to use your own phone, you’re probably raising one. - Generation Beta (2025–2039): Not here yet—but projected to be the largest generation ever.
They’ll grow up in a world shaped by personalization, wearable tech, and climate innovation—no pressure, kids.
So… where do you fit?
Maybe you see yourself in one generation. Maybe you feel like a mix. Or maybe you just realized your childhood snack no longer exists and had a moment. Wherever you land, remember this: your generation gives us clues about what shaped you—but it doesn’t define you.
The real opportunity is using these insights to lead smarter, connect more deeply, and bridge the gaps that often keep us apart.
A huge thank-you to Reader’s Digest for the feature. I hope you check out the full article and the full generations guide by clicking here!
And if you’re still not sure which generation you belong to? You’re probably right where you’re supposed to be.
Posted: June 17th, 2025
Categories: Generations | Inspiration | Keynote Speaking | Leadership | Trends | Workforce
Written by Jason Dorsey
Jason Dorsey is an acclaimed generations and behavioral researcher and speaker. He's received over 1,000 standing ovations for his unique keynote presentations. Jason has led over 120 research studies. Adweek calls him a "research guru." His mission is to deliver new insights and practical strategies that solve business challenges for leaders.
