The “Baby Boomer” generation encompasses almost 80 million people in the United States. It is one of the largest segments of our population, eclipsed only slightly by Millennials. Demographically they are defined as those people born between 1946 and 1964; that boom of children born of the returning soldiers from World War II. (Those soldiers got really busy when they got home.)
It’s one of the most influential generations in history; a true phenomenon.
Now aged between 57 and 75, these Boomers are also more and more out of “traditional” work. They can be replaced with a younger version, far more technically adept, costing half as much. Most will never return to a job again.
Of course, I am a “Boomer” myself, and I haven’t had a job in a lot of years. I have had a business.
This is the hope for all Boomers: self-employment! The problem is that many of my Boomer clients are afraid to have their own businesses. Some of you may not have really considered it because you didn’t know where to begin – and you’re used to having a job. But Boomers can actually be well suited to the entrepreneurial style. Boomers tend to appreciate independence, they do mistrust authority, and they are at a time of life when they are highly skilled.
My opinion is that whether or not you return to corporate life, starting a small business is an excellent step because it keeps you in the game; it gives you focus. We are still the most influential generation in history, and we need to be active and involved in commerce.
Also, a lot of people think “starting a business” is like starting Apple. This is not about empire building; this is a survival technique. In this Covid era it is usually home-based and requires at least a passing knowledge of Zoom. We are in an era that is not focused on “jobs,” as much as “projects,” “outsourcing,” and “part time.”
This group is not actually “entrepreneurial;” but it is truly “enterprising.”
Having an “enterprise,” teaches you about leading, time management, marketing, and presenting – all of which are important in the marketplace today. Also, it is more empowering when your life is composed of services you are offering and allows you to think in terms of 2 or 4 “clients” you serve as opposed to serving only one: a boss.
Making money keeps you in the game and makes you feel younger and more vital. When someone is willing to pay you good money, it makes you feel valued, and pumps so much self-esteem, you won’t even need Botox!!
Are you a Boomer looking for support getting up and running? Let’s chat.
https://bookedin.com/book/fired-up-for-success
Mary Lyn
