Proud to be a Xennial

Those born between 1975 and 1985 are really the greatest (micro)generation

The other day I must have uttered the words, “****ing millennials” at least five times. With all do respect to my siblings, you are the most entitled generation of all time (with notable exceptions, obviously).

The second most entitled generation are the cross-over people born on the cusp of the Baby Boomer-Generation X crossover – let’s say for this oped’s sake 1962 to 1973. You’re not the only ones who pay taxes, buy stuff, have worked for a living, etc. – get over yourselves.

The post-millennial generations still have time to make a lasting and positive mark on society (if they ever take a break from TikTok vids and Snapchats). So, we’ll reserve judgement for now.

On the flip side, anything pre-Baby Boomer and post-Roman Empire was like a series of bad dates – there were a few things that were “meh, okay,” some “really, you’re kidding me, that’s horrible” moments, and the rest was forgettable. You know it, I know it.

So, that brings us to the mighty microgeneration Xennials (really 1977 to 1983, but I personally feel its ’75 to ’85 and it’s my column and I want to include my friends and cousins) that really make the world go round. Part 80s, part 90s, part 2000s, part any generation because we’re so awesome.

On that note, here are the top 10 reasons why Xennials are the generational G.O.A.T. …

Adaptability and innovation. Rotary phones, home phones, payphones, typewriters, vinyl, cassette tapes, CDs, VHS, camcorders, BETA, DVDs, desktop computers, laptops, ipads, tablets, ipods, cell phones, mp3s, streaming, and on and on. Building new technologies, learning how they work and maximizing their benefits in our everyday lives is just what we do. Of course, the adaptability is helpful in all aspects of life.

Common Sense. Seriously lacking in some other generations, common sense is huge among us. If you’re a good person and treat me good, I’ll treat you good. If someone’s not bothering you, don’t bother them. Be good to your family and friends. Keep your mouth shut and listen to learn something. Never assume – “it makes an ass out of u and me.” Etcetera, etcetera.

Character(s). Let’s face it, we all thought we were hilarious growing up and making fun of each other was a part of that. And every once in a while, we got a kick in the ass (literally) from family or friends when we were messing up. It built character and created interesting characters. It means we don’t get easily offended or triggered by jokes or other people’s opinions – hopefully we’re passing this on to our kids.

Movies and TV. Again, the list is huge, but the blockbuster hit movies and timeless underrated gems that were made for and by our generation can’t be beat. Plus, TV shows that transcend time, including a bunch of animated comedies that are still going strong. Really, just say thank you and be on your way.

Fashion. Yep, we look good in almost anything. Tight jeans and t-shirts, baggy pants and sports jerseys, shorts and loafers, golf attire, power suits, ballroom gowns, mini-skirts, sundresses … Jordans, Stan Smiths, Puma Romas, Converse canvas: the best styles came from our tastes and they’re still going strong.

Music. As in, ours was the best. I won’t list all the artists, but even young people vibe to the 80s, 90s and early 2000 tunes. Many of us listened to pretty much any genre and developed truly eclectic tastes.

Playing with friends. Forget using the phone, when we wanted to find people to play with you either went to where they lived (be it a house or an aparment/condo building) and asked if they were home. Or you just knew where everyone would be – the local basketball court, park, soccer field, skating rink, arcade, pool hall – and went there. It’s a level of connection and socialization we would be smart to mimic in future generations.

Respect. For everyone. If you didn’t show it, you got punched in the face. So, anytime you disrespected someone, you had to be either wanting to fight or really not giving a s*** in that moment (likely due to a high level of inebriation). And we’re talking real disrespect, not I made a joke and you don’t appreciate the humour. Also, when we wanted to share opinions it was to people’s faces, so our social and political disagreements tended to be less vitriolic than the ones now where people get to hide online.

We Like to Party. Like actually party and dance and have fun until we can’t move anymore. Every since we were little kids and watched Animal House at way too young an age, our mission was to party harder than those toga-wearing frat boys ever could. “I’m an animal, he’s an animal, she’s an animal” are badges of honour. Don’t believe me, gather a group of Xennials – even though we’re all in our 40s now – and let them loose for a night on the town. Or maybe it’s just my friends.

Work ethic. We work hard, we play hard, and we respect those with strong work ethics from any walk of life. It’s a bit of that old school mentality that we bring forth each and every day.

I didn’t even mention sports teams and athletes, which isn’t like me. Oh well, for another time, I have to get the kids ready for school.