The baby boomer generation is among us; this generation, born between 1957 and 1977, has a distinct identity and has lived through challenging times. In Spain, in particular, there are approximately 8 million people aged 65 and over, who have experienced the post-war population boom.
They have experienced significant changes in their lives, with the entry into the European Union, the Franco dictatorship, the arrival of television, the struggle for social values, and the integration of women into the workforce. Their name originates from a Daily Press article in January 1963, which analyzed university enrollment figures showing a rise in the number of students over 18. What else can we learn about this generation?
Generations we should know
There are different generations throughout these decades, with different qualities and very marked personalities. Let's see which ones have transcended over these years:
- Baby boomers: born between 1949 and 1968
- Generation X: born between 1969 and 1980
- Millennials (generation Y): born between 1981 and 1995
- Generation Z: born between 1996 and 2012
- Alpha Generation: born between 2013 and 2025
Boomer generation or “Baby boom”
This demographic group comprises people born between 1957 and 1977, also corresponding to those born after World War II . This generation represents a majority of the population, given the prosperous times of the late 40s and 50s, which led to a higher birth rate.
What generally defines this generation? They live in prosperous times, but with parents who raised them with strict discipline. The war brought a period of scarcity and led to a greater appreciation for work and family. There has been a desire to improve living conditions and well-being, something many families have fought for.
They have created fairly conservative families, with the same rigid traits, adhering to discipline and strict upbringing. They are people between 58 and 70 years old, with characteristics such as:
- The appreciation of family is always urgent, they like to share festivities and events with those closest to them.
- They look for the personal fulfillment, with the invention of rebirth of that "I" that they had inside.
- They value financial stability, many of them allow themselves to save money with the premise of waiting for certain whims.
- great workers, intense at work and with the idea of prospering.
- They don't like changes, they prefer maintain a daily and full life.
Boomer generation within our generation
Many technological advances have influenced these decades. Primarily, the introduction of mobile phones and the internet expanded digital marketing from its inception. Many have remained isolated from this digital impact, yet their lives continue to unfold within this profound transformation, with an almost unavoidable involvement.
Since the pandemic, technology seems to have become even more prevalent. There has been no alternative but to move forward with it. Over 50% of baby boomers spend five hours a day connected to their mobile devices, using the internet and even making purchases. Social media has also become part of their daily routine, reflecting their social nature and curiosity.
Differences between Generation Z and the Baby Boom Generation
Generation Z emerged alongside the introduction of new technology. They've been shaped by events similar to those experienced by Baby Boomers, but it's here that their distinct personality has truly come to the fore. Boomers are of retirement age , own a significant portion of their property, are savers, and have dedicated their time to work. However, Generation Z works part-time and aspires to a better quality of life. They also desire stability, family support, and social and digital security.
Other curious facts about Baby Boomers
The economy has been the primary factor impacting the lives of this generation . Their visibility is valued in their workplace; they always seek stable employment where they must excel and be excellent workers. They will be strictly punctual and work hard throughout their shifts to be valued.
It's absolutely true that when they're fully engaged in their work , they'll always be self-sufficient in terms of performance, given that they have a stable and fulfilling job. It simply means they want to excel in everything they do to achieve that stability.
Furthermore, they reach retirement age, and most of them don't want to retire. They want to continue working, but many move to a different position, part-time, or more creative activities.
A generation eager to adapt to current times
It's important to observe how much lifestyles have changed in recent years. The vacation system has completely transformed , and taking a vacation is now almost a must when you have free time. This wasn't the case in the past, when people rested during their holidays within their own communities, not choosing to travel or go on vacation. In fact, statistics show that in the last year, almost 50% of loans requested were for baby boomers and for leisure or travel expenses.
Baby boomers can now live comfortably on their retirement, but many are left with unrealistic expectations about reaching retirement age or feeling they haven't contributed as much as they'd hoped. Despite this uncertainty, many still believe they are 100% productive, capable of adapting and not giving up. They have dedicated most of their lives to work and may feel anxiety and confusion at not seeing their expectations met. Many suffer from not receiving a full pension or not reaching retirement age.
There's something very true about what we see today: baby boomers have a critical view of the younger generations. They have struggled throughout their lives with commitment and hard work, yet they observe how society is devoted to a world of instant gratification.
