The term millennial describes a group of people that were born in the 80s and 90s. Although I’m technically a millennial I don’t use that term to describe myself because I think it carries a lot of bias. It’s always interesting when you hear someone say something negative about millennials and then turn to the millennial in the room and say, “but you’re different”. I think this blog series has already proven the stereotypes are flawed and that every individual, regardless of age, is different.
I think respect can sometimes be missing in intergenerational communications. Assumptions can be made on both sides about interests, opinions and experience solely based on the year people were born. Making assumptions can get in the way of real connection. You’re less likely to be curious about someone’s experience if you have already put them into a box based on stereotypes about their generation.

I’ve heard the stereotype that millennials can’t take criticism and are too sensitive. Giving and receiving feedback are skills that can be developed through practice. I’ve met boomers and millennials who are terrible at this and others who have worked hard to hone these skills.

In an effort to prove millennials are lazy and entitled, I’ve also heard older generations compare the situations they grew up in to the situations millennials are faced with today. Just like every generation, millennials are faced with a new array of challenges and opportunities than the generation that came before them.

I wonder how much of the conversation about millennial stereotypes can be attributed to age-related differences rather than generational differences. It seems like every generation is critical of the generation that comes after them.



At home, I prefer face to face but sometimes a text or phone call is easiest when we're all so busy. I also use FaceTime to connect with friends who live abroad.

· Focus on being interested rather than interesting.
· Develop curiosity in difficult situations.
· Test your beliefs and assumptions. If you discover that your ideas are wrong, move on.
I think good communication takes practice and it’s a skill I’m always working to improve. For example, I know people connect to stories more than facts and data but I’ve never considered myself to be a very compelling storyteller. It’s an area I’m continually working on.
Let Them Eat Dirt: Saving Your Child from an Oversanitized World by Brett Finlay and Marie-Claire Arrieta

Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Rennie Eddo-Loge (I don’t often read books twice, but this one is so good that I’ve picked it up again)

21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act: Helping Canadians Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples a Reality by Bob Joseph

Going to Meet the Man by James Baldwin

I’m guilty of binge watching chef shows (Ugly Delicious, Chef’s Table) and stand-up specials on Netflix.
I spend a lot of time outdoors with my partner – hiking, biking and camping. I also love spending time in the kitchen with family and friends.
I access almost everything through my phone – email, messaging apps, FaceTime.
There are so many things! I enjoy learning about other cultures and places through travel and I’m currently trying to narrow down where to go next – India, Indonesia, Kenya, Vietnam, Portugal, and the list goes on. This summer I also want to spend more time learning about mountain biking. At work, I’m learning a lot about Indigenous relations and how we manage and treat wastewater in the region.

Repetition can also drive me crazy but I’m trying to embrace the meditative quality of doing the same thing over and over again (thanks yoga).
My dad can literally make me fall to the floor laughing in tears. He has the most unique sense of humour.