You know that age diversity is a topic very close to my heart. To master age diversity, we need to appreciate all ages and learn from the experiences of all generations. To be New Age Leaders, we need to master this skill and make an effort to understand where other generations are coming from and what shaped their realities and ways of doing.

Today, we’re about to embark on a journey into the past to uncover some hidden gems of wisdom from our grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ generations. You see, the generations that came before Baby Boomers have a lot to teach us, and we’re here to unlock those lessons.

Who Were They, Anyway?

Our grandparents, or even great-grandparents, belong to what’s called the Silent Generation (born roughly between 1928-1945). They grew up during the Great Depression and World War II, which shaped their values of hard work, discipline, and personal responsibility. Silent Generation folks believe in getting things done, which is a leadership trait I think very highly of.

Now, let’s talk about our great-grandparents, members of the Greatest Generation (born roughly between 1901-1927). These extraordinary individuals came of age during the Great Depression and fought bravely in World War II. They’re known for their resilience, adaptability, and their strong sense of duty and community.

Now, let’s talk about our great-grandparents, members of the Greatest Generation (born roughly between 1901-1927). These extraordinary individuals came of age during the Great Depression and fought bravely in World War II. They’re known for their resilience, adaptability, and their strong sense of duty and community.

They grew up through times of economic hardship, so they had to learn to be resourceful and to save whatever they have. My grandma still walks around my house turning all the light switches off, including the heating and air-conditioning. Also, and freaks out whenever she hears I have been out shopping… again.

Does this ring any bells? Before we go and judge the members of these generations about being frugal, let’s try and understand how they grew up.

What Can We Learn from Them?

1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Imagine living through economic hardship, global conflict, and societal upheaval. Oh yes, it sounds familiar, even in today’s world. Our grandparents and great-grandparents did just that, growing up in times of war and economic uncertainty. Their remarkable resilience, adaptability, and determination to overcome adversity are timeless qualities that can inspire us when we face our own challenges.
2. Strong Community Bonds: In their time, community and social cohesion were paramount. States and social systems were weakened, so they looked out for each other and built strong, inclusive communities. As we navigate a world that sometimes feels digital and divided, their commitment to building inclusive communities can be our guiding light.
3. The Value of Hard Work: We are growing up in an era where we are insisting to work smart, not hard. Hard work was not just a virtue for them; it was a necessity. Their strong work ethic, discipline, and commitment to their craft are timeless lessons in an age where instant gratification can be a distraction.

Leadership Traits to Adopt:

Adaptability: The Greatest Generation showed remarkable adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges. They embraced change and remained flexible, which are crucial traits for effective leadership in today’s dynamic world.

Sense of Duty: Both generations had a strong sense of duty, whether it was serving their country during wartime or providing for their families during tough economic times. Leaders can emulate this sense of responsibility in their commitment to their teams and organizations.

Community Building: Building strong, inclusive communities was central to their lives. Leaders can prioritize creating a sense of belonging and unity within their teams and organizations, fostering a positive work environment.

Resilience: Resilience in the face of adversity is a hallmark of these generations. Leaders should cultivate resilience to weather challenges and setbacks, demonstrating to their teams that setbacks are opportunities for growth.

Practical Steps to Learn More:

1. Chat with Your Grandparents: Strike up conversations with your grandparents and ask them about their experiences, values, and the challenges they faced. You’ll be amazed at the stories and wisdom they have to share.
2. Read Books and Biographies: Pick up books or biographies about influential figures from those generations. You’ll gain deeper insights into their lives and perspectives, which can inform your leadership style.
3. Watch Documentaries: There are documentaries that provide a glimpse into the historical events that shaped these generations. They can help you understand the context in which our grandparents and great-grandparents grew up.
4. Explore Their Hobbies: Find out what hobbies or interests your grandparents had when they were your age. Learning about their passions can be a fun and enlightening experience.
5. Volunteer in Your Community: Embrace the sense of community that was so important to these generations by getting involved in local volunteering or community-building initiatives.
6. Reflect on Their Quotes: Take some time to reflect on the quotes from thought leaders of those generations. Consider how their wisdom applies to your life, leadership, and decision-making.

So, Monsters, let’s dive into the past to unlock the treasures of wisdom from our grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ generations. The lessons we learn from them can be our guiding stars as we navigate the adventures of the 21st century.

Go forth, unleash your curiosity, and embrace the timeless wisdom of generations past!

Photo by Sven Mieke on Unsplash