At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we’re often asked a deceptively simple question: “Which generation am I really in?” It’s a great question—and the answer isn’t always as straightforward as matching your birth year to a label.
That’s why we were excited to see our President, Jason Dorsey, featured in Reader’s Digest to explore this very topic. In the article, Jason explains why so many people don’t feel like they neatly fit into one generation—and why that actually makes a lot of sense.
As Jason shared, “The years that mark generations are hotly debated, which has led to a lot of confusion.” CGK’s research shows that about one-third of Americans identify more with the generation before or after their own. Many fall into what we call “cuspers”—individuals born on the edges of two generations who often carry traits from both. These micro-generations are increasingly relevant as the pace of change continues to accelerate.
In fact, one of the biggest shifts we’re seeing in our research is that generational time frames are getting shorter. New generations are forming more quickly than ever, driven by rapid advances in technology, major global events, evolving culture, and changing parenting norms. These forces shape our formative years—and in doing so, influence how we see the world and where we feel we belong.
At CGK, we always remind clients and audiences: Generations aren’t boxes. They’re clues. While they don’t define a person, they do provide helpful context for understanding behavior, preferences, communication styles, and decision-making patterns across age groups.
Whether you’re leading a team, launching a campaign, or simply trying to understand the dynamics at the dinner table, generational insights offer powerful tools for connection.
Inspired by the Reader’s Digest feature, here’s a lighthearted guide to the generations and micro-generations shaping our world:
The Greatest Generation (1901–1927)
Shaped by the Great Depression and WWII, they modeled resilience, discipline, and civic duty.
The Silent Generation (1928–1945)
Often practical and understated, they laid the foundation for suburban growth and early pop culture.
Baby Boomers (1946–1964)
Raised during prosperity and social change, they redefined consumer culture and workplace expectations.
Generation X (1965–1980)
Independent, resourceful, and often skeptical, Gen X came of age alongside analog tech and digital disruption.
Xennials (1977–1983)
A micro-generation bridging Gen X and Millennials, they remember life before the internet—and helped build what came after.
Millennials (1981–1996)
Purpose-driven and tech-dependent, they value experiences, transparency, and flexibility.
Zillennials (1993–1998)
Straddling Millennials and Gen Z, they blend analog childhoods with digital adulthood.
Generation Z (1997–2012)
Digital natives who prioritize authenticity, social awareness, and pragmatic problem-solving.
Generation Alpha (2013–2024)
Growing up surrounded by AI and smart tech, they’re already shaping family decisions—and influencing tech trends.
Generation Beta (2025–2039)
Still to come, this next generation will grow up in a world defined by personalization, automation, and sustainability.
So where do you fit? You might see yourself clearly in one group—or feel like a mix of two. That’s completely normal. What matters most isn’t the label, but what it reveals about what factors may have shaped your worldview.
At CGK, we’re continuing to explore how generations form, evolve, and influence everything from the workplace to the marketplace. These insights are essential for leaders, marketers, educators, and anyone looking to connect across age groups in a more meaningful way.
To read the full Reader’s Digest article and explore the full generational guide, click here!
And if you’re still unsure where you land? You’re probably right where you’re supposed to be.
