The Future of Work is Already Here—Are You Listening?
I came up in a business world that was very black and white.
You respected hierarchies.
You left your personal life at the door.
You most definitely didn’t cry in the conference room (or bring snacks unless they were for everyone).
Like many Gen Xers, I was raised on “pay your dues” and “keep it professional.” And honestly? That structure worked... until it didn’t. Don’t get me wrong—I had some phenomenal leaders. People who made space for my voice, taught me that “you’re only as good as your team,” and reminded me early on: culture is everything.
But then things started to shift.
Was it because of my Gen Z kids who were out here asking “Why are we doing it this way?” before they even had a driver’s license? Maybe it was the mentors who said, “Viv, the leader adjusts, not the team.” Or maybe it was my own gut telling me: the only constant in business (and life) is change. Whatever it was—it woke me up.
As a small business owner and entrepreneur, I didn’t have the luxury of clinging to outdated models. I wasn’t just the CEO—I was the operator, the janitor, the team lead, and the face of the brand. And when you’re in every seat, you learn quickly that:
Transparency isn’t optional.
Culture isn’t fluff.
Leadership is about alignment, not authority.
I don’t create workplaces with blurred lines—but I do create cultures rooted in clarity and transparency. Why? Because Gen Z demands it—and they’re right to. What Gen Z Values Most (in business and in life):
• Transparency – Be honest, even when it’s awkward.
• Authenticity – They’ll sniff out fake energy before you finish your welcome email.
• Social Impact – They want receipts. What do you stand for?
• Inclusion – Not just the headcount, but the heart.
• Participation – Don’t just assign tasks. Invite them to the table.
• Well-being – Mental health, work-life boundaries, and yes... PTO that gets used.
A Personal Note
I like to think that my ability to listen, set my ego aside, and shift away from the “because that’s how we’ve always done it”mindset has impacted my two amazing children. They understand the value of hard work, respect, and showing up—but they also stay rooted in what matters to them. And I respect that. I learn from them daily.
Sometimes we don’t give the next generation enough credit. Let’s do better.
Let’s listen—because just because it’s not our way... doesn’t mean it’s the wrong way.
Also... let’s not forget: Gen Z and TikTok kept us entertained, distracted, and dancing through the chaos during COVID. That alone deserves some respect. And beyond that? They’re innovative, wildly creative, master multitaskers, and they’re building empires from coffee shops and iPhones. These young women are calling it like it is—before menopause even hits. Hats off, y’all.
With Love, Grit, and Gratitude,
Vividly Vivian