Through the eyes of Gen X – a look into other generations
What traits do Gen X see in themselves and other generations?
In a 2023 survey with 2,374 Gen X respondents (aged 40–59), we looked at how they perceive themselves — and other generations. While the findings are not nationally representative, they offer an interesting snapshot of how Gen X views generational traits.
How Gen X Sees Themselves
55.4% of Gen X describes themselves as the most ‘responsible’ generation – even more so than Baby Boomers (47.6%) and younger generations, Millennials (14.2%) and Gen Z (4.3%).
While Baby Boomers are still seen as the toughest, with 66.4% of Gen X respondents describing them as ‘able to take hardship’, Gen X comes in second at 50.2%, far ahead of Millennials (8.6%) and Gen Z (3.0%).
Gen X also sees themselves as the most adaptable generation, with 36.5% saying they are adaptable to change — more than Millennials (26.2%), Baby Boomers (15.8%), and Gen Z (14.0%). Paired with how strongly they identify with being responsible, Gen X perceive themselves as both grounded and flexible.
How Gen X Views the Younger Generations
Gen X sees Millennials and Gen Z as more risk-taking (24.2% and 23.1% respectively) than themselves (10.5%) or Baby Boomers (5.3%).
While younger generations are seen as more adventurous, they’re also viewed as less resilient — suggesting a shift in how different age groups approach challenges and uncertainty.
Realism vs. Idealism
Only 4.2% of Gen X perceive themselves as ‘unrealistic/too idealistic’. In contrast, Baby Boomers are perceived as even more pragmatic (2.4%), while Millennials (18.2%) and Gen Z (34.2%) are seen as far more idealistic.
Do you relate to these traits — or see them in someone you know? Join the conversation in our next survey at HappyDot.sg!
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