This is my mom, she is 70 years old and she inspires and teaches me something every day. We are absolutely part of different generations and that helps us in learning frome each other.
Six years ago when I started running, my mom started with me. To support me and also because she enjoyed running when she was younger. She was a much (much!) better runner than me. Where I felt like I was dying after 100m, she just kept going and challenged me to do the same. She taught me perseverance. When I didn’t feel like going, because it was cold or raining, she would go and drag me with her. She taught me discipline.
I’ve come a long way and managed to run several half marathons, two marathons and I made the transition to Triathlons. My mom is always there to support me. She taught me what true support is. I wouldn’t be where I am now without her. We still run together and I still learn from her.
When I asked my mom whether I taught her something, she said that because running is becoming more difficult for her (medical reasons) she now finds support in me. Well to be honest, she said ‘No’ first. But after further questioning, she also learns from my knowledge. I’m reading about running techniques, exercises and nutrition. I share my knowledge.
I out run my mom nowadays, but that does not make me a better runner than her (she’s 35 years older than me!). We learned and learn from each other continuously.
My point? Generations bring different skills, knowledge and experience to the table. Instead of focusing on the gap, it’s more valuable to focus on what we can learn from each other and bridge the gap.
How? The possibilities of generation management are endless! Team diversity. Buddy systems. Onboarding programs.
What do you do in your organisation regarding generation management? What works? What are the struggles?
Curious? Take a look at our talent programs page!