Millennials have officially taken the crown as the largest generation in America, and this year, they’ve added another title: the wave of new moms. A report from Goldman Sachs reveals that Millennial moms represented over 90 percent of new mothers in the past year in the U.S. With their unique approach to motherhood, they’re bound to leave their mark on the parenting landscape. But hey, Gen-Xers, we’ve got nothing to worry about! There’s plenty we can learn from these young trailblazers. Here are five Millennial traits that we, the Generation X, could embrace:
1. Leverage the Digital World
Millennial moms are far more adept at navigating the digital landscape since they grew up with it. They don’t struggle to keep up with the latest apps and platforms; instead, they confidently embrace whatever comes next, knowing it can enhance their parenting experience. So why not take a page from their book and dive headfirst into the online parenting world, just like they do with each new trend?
2. Utilize Smartphone Solutions
For Millennials, “there’s an app for that” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a way of life! They use technology to track everything from nap times to meal prep and even finding babysitters. As Gen-Xers, perhaps we should also feel free to seek out the convenient solutions right at our fingertips. Who says parenting can’t be done with a little help from our smartphones?
3. Build Strong Family Bonds
It’s evident that Millennials have forged much better connections with their parents than we did. While I was busy obsessing over grunge music, many Millennials were naming their parents as their best friends. Imagine the ease of having your parents as allies while raising your own kids! It might not be too late to strengthen those bonds—maybe I should send my mom a thoughtful card, or something equally sweet, just to catch up.
4. Stay Open to Life’s Surprises
Growing up with messages of self-worth and limitless potential has made Millennials incredibly adaptable. They’re open to alternative life choices, whether it’s a child declaring themselves a vegan or a teen opting for real-world experiences over college. Perhaps by embracing this flexibility, we can better navigate the unpredictable journey of parenthood.
5. Prioritize ‘Me Time’
Millennials are all about self-discovery—traveling, adventuring, and embracing life’s experiences. They expect these opportunities to be within reach, and frankly, I’m a little envious. Perhaps we could learn a thing or two about making time for ourselves. After all, who wouldn’t want to take that long-deserved backpacking trip through Indonesia? Maybe it’s time to dust off that old travel backpack!
This article was originally published on May 15, 2015. For more insights, check out our other posts on home insemination at this link.
In summary, Gen-X moms can gain valuable insights from their Millennial counterparts, from embracing the digital age to nurturing family relationships and prioritizing self-care. As we navigate the complexities of parenting, let’s not hesitate to adopt these lessons and enrich our own experiences.