Elting:
There has been a long-running discussion, even pre-pandemic, about the unique economic challenges Millennials and, increasingly, Zoomers, have faced during some of their most pivotal earning years and their resulting arrested development.
The first thing is to acknowledge that there have been huge changes in society that have changed the game. For example, The Affordable Care Act has helped so many families of older children because parents can keep their kids on their health insurance up to age 26. But it also creates a financial tie between generations that complicates the need for the next generation to establish themselves and their own independence.
What we have to do is constantly adapt and remember to meet the next generation where they are—not where we were at that stage in our lives because that doesn’t resonate. We also need to be mindful of the—not more, not fewer—challenges they face, and to remember that they are often reacting to how we approach adulting. We may not be as aware that they are watching how we approach life’s ups and downs and that they take their cues from us, even when so much is unspoken.
Going through real world examples of course correction or ways to adapt can be very powerful and at times, even a fun challenge.It is a gift to give your child the confidence in themselves that while you will be there for them, you believe in their ability to be adults and to live their own lives.