Am I a Millennial or Generation Z? Understanding Your Generational Identity

If you were born in July 1992, you are typically considered a Millennial. This generation, also known as ‘Generation Y’, includes individuals born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s to early 2000s. Generation Z, which typically includes those born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s, begins to diverge. Therefore, as a 1992 birth, you are comfortably nestled within the Millennial category.

Generational Labels

Depending on your preference, you can also be classified as Generation Z or Generation X. There is no objectively right or wrong category as it is a matter of personal opinion. These labels can be subjective and meaningless, so feel free to identify as you see fit. Each generation has unique characteristics shaped by the cultural and technological context in which they grew up.

Generational Breakdown

Millennials are generally considered to be born between 1981 and 1996. This means you, born in 1992, are right in the middle of this period. The delineation of generations can often be a source of confusion, but understanding these categories can provide valuable insights into the distinct cultural and technological landscapes of different eras.

Each generation grows up in a distinct cultural and technological environment, which influences their work habits, communication styles, and overall worldview. Millennials were the first to grow up with the internet as a fundamental part of their lives, while still having memories of a world before social media dominance. This unique position shapes their tech-savviness and appreciation for the pre-digital era.

In contrast, Generation Z, those born from 1997 onward, are true digital natives. They have never known a world without fast internet, smartphones, or ubiquitous social media. This distinctly shapes their experiences and world view compared to Millennials.

Key Experiences of Millennials

Being a part of the Millennial generation means experiencing a rapid series of technological and cultural advancements. From the early days of the internet in your youth to navigating the complexities of a digital-first adulthood, it's been quite a journey. Millennials witnessed significant cultural shifts, including the rise of social media, the global financial crisis, and rapid globalization.

These experiences have shaped the way Millennials approach work, technology, and societal challenges. Understanding our generational context helps us make sense of the broader social and technological currents that define our lives. Whether it's engaging in the workforce, our approach to technology, or our outlook on future challenges, our generational identity plays a subtle yet significant role.

So, whether you're a fellow Portlander or anyone experiencing the peculiarities of our modern era, understanding our generational identity is key to better understanding ourselves and the world around us.