Values Evolution

We often question the values of the previous generation. After all, it’s a different world today. Now we know more.

Look at how our view of loyalty to one company for life (or their loyalty to us) has changed so dramatically in just a couple generations. Other values have moved up the hierarchy. We now behave as free agents with portable careers and in the process our sense of community has been irrevocably altered. Now our values are changing again in order to operate in this new paradigm.

Expectations for our children. Not too long ago our society supported values that prepared kids to come out of their college years ready to operate as independent adults. They would get their own place, live on their own modest means and become a member of the community standing beside us. Now, perhaps with the intent of giving our kids a leg up in their careers, we often extend our support (and their dependence) well into their 20’s and even the 30’s. Some organizations are even involving the parents of 25-year-old applicants in the hiring process. Independence is valued less than it once was.

Free to be you and me. One generation’s mantra. This one-time paean to quirky individualism seems to have been redefined as a sense of entitlement, a defense of our right to have what we want when we want it. Short term gratification out-trumping long term commitments and sacrifice.

I don’t want to judge these changes but to acknowledge them. Our evolving culture becomes the air we breathe so the alternative approaches slip out of fashion – or even out of view. I’m thinking we should be talking about this – not in a polarizing way but in order to have a greater shared sense of what is in our control – and what is not. After all, this generation is having its way like every one before us. What will be our legacies?