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Characteristics of the Baby Boomer

Growing Up in the Post World War II Era

By , About.com Guide

Baby Boomers are all part of the post World War II baby boom and were born between 1946 and 1964. This generation for the most part experienced good health and were the wealthiest generation up to this point in time. They also possessed a sense of optimism and never doubted that the world would definitely improve with time. Baby Boomers grew up during the turbulent times of the 60’s whose music, events, and the Vietnam War helped define the world in a very unique and different way.

The world that Baby Boomers grew up in was not the same for all. Those who remember the assassination of President Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy, and Martin Luther King and who served in the Vietnam War grew up in a much different world than those born during the later years of this generation. Not only was the war over or coming to an end as they were coming of age, the music and events experienced were also much different and affected them in a number of different ways. Those born later were not subject to the military draft and tended to use more illegal drugs during their teenage and young adult years.

Characteristics:

Baby Boomers are extremely hard working and strongly committed to their personal and professional goals. Their motivation stems from gaining positive recognition on doing a good job and they are not hesitant to put their all into any project they seek to accomplish. Baby Boomers grew up during turbulent times and they often question authority and buck the system due to their need to make their mark and work diligently to achieve their goals.

Baby Boomers are extremely career focused and while many of them are currently retiring, this exit from the workforce will create a vast hole in the number of people currently employed. Since most Baby Boomers have had to work their way up the ranks, they believe in seniority and earning your place on the job. They believe in the system and often have a hard time with the attitudes of younger workers and with the rise of telecommuting as a career option.

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