Millennials are increasingly the brunt of many jokes, particularly in the workplace. But are all millennials spoiled, entitled, lazy, self-absorbed, narcissistic, participation-award-winners?

22. Is there Hope for Millennials?

I’m surrounded by many millennials who don’t fit the stereotypical mold. So I know it’s possible to be different. There is hope. For change. Respect. Trust. Maturity.

And not everything “stereotypical” of millennials is a bad thing. A greater sense of global purpose, fresh perspectives on innovation and creativity, technological savvy, reinventing the coffee scene 😏☕️, improving individual health and fitness, raising awareness, advocacy, and volunteering.

My YouTube grapevine shared the following gems with me. I got a kick out of them. No personal offense taken. (That first one though. 😂👏🏼)

From the boss’ perspective:

From the millennial perspective:

And quite possibly my favorite poke at reality:

Isn’t that last video scarily accurate? Are millennials really stuck in a rut? What should millennials be like?

Obviously these videos portray gross (perhaps amusing) exaggerations. I’m sure many millennials land on the positive side of expectations. But where do the negative stereotypes come from if not from some part of a generational reality?

I’ve known millennials who were glued to their couch playing video games or watching Netflix all day without any other drive or purpose for living.

[Resource: Put that iPhone in Airplane Mode]

I’ve also known many millennial friends who are ambitious business owners, intentional in pursuing relationships and wise counsel, providers and protectors of their families, great friends, and faithful servant leaders in their churches. 

I want to be like that.

[Resource: One Question Millennials Should Always Ask to Increase their Credibility with Baby Boomers]

Practicing this mentality of changing the stereotype has enabled me to have more success at work, increased engagement with others, and greater trust and respect among older generations.

“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭ESV; emphasis added‬‬)

Don’t give people a reason to despise your “youthfulness.” Change the stereotype. Give people a reason to respect you.

At the end of the day, I’d like to be a millennial who is committed, compassionate, motivated, joy-filled, loyal, others-focused, and following Jesus.

Realize the hope. Set an example worthy of imitation. Earn respect.