Really -- do you want to hang your identity on a label that somebody slapped on your back when you weren't looking? If you do, here are some of the common traits attributed to Gen Y:

• trend-conscious
• Idealistic, optimistic, and flexible
• Socially responsible; particularly concerned about the environment
• Very comfortable with technology; like to multi-task
• Have a hunger for feedback and rewards

Likewise, for Gen X, you'll see none of those characteristics. Instead, substitute:

• Cynical,
• Media savvy
• Individualistic and self-reliant
• grew up during economic downturn
• work ethic

So let's dump the term "generation" -- just for a minute. Let's say instead that you've been out of school for 2 years. OK, do you have that picture?

Now, let's think 12 years out of school. What's changed? Do you still frequent Taco Bell for your dinner? Do you still make the same mistakes on the job, and off the job?

All right, leap through time another 10 or 20 years.
Do you have a longer view of careers, family, politics, work ethic, important technology vs. gadgets?

I'm betting you do, and that it has continued to change and mature you, and will continue to do so. I'm also betting that this difference in maturity levels is what causes generational friction. Sometimes, you want to learn from other people's mistakes, and not repeat them. And sometimes you want to make your own mistakes.

I say again -- Gen Y doesn't exist. People do exist at a different level of maturity, people who have learned different things, perhaps, from others' mistakes. Perhaps from yours.

You can agree with me if you wish. But if you disagree, you run the risk that I'll decide that you don't exist, either.

Tell me off, if you think I'm wrong.

Photo by Ha-wee

P.S. Speaking of levels of maturity, I was fascinated by some major trending topics on Twitter this past weekend -- #balloonboy and #Sue Sylvester (look it up!) as well as #bostonisbetter. Doesn't this sound like "normal" times?