Let’s face it: Gen Xers are a breed all their own. We were the latchkey kids, the ones who grew up in a time of mixtapes and Walkmans, learning to fend for ourselves while the world rapidly changed around us. And now, we’re stronger, smarter, and more resilient because of it. So, what makes us true badasses? Let me break it down for you.

1. We say yes first, then figure out how to deliver
Gen Xers have always been up for a challenge. We don’t wait around for perfect conditions or all the answers. We jump in headfirst and trust ourselves to figure it out. That’s how we’ve navigated life—by learning, adapting, and making things happen. It’s not about having all the answers but knowing you can find them.
2. We think differently than everyone else
Conformity? Not in our DNA. We grew up questioning everything—from authority to societal norms—and that mindset has stuck with us. We’re unafraid to challenge the status quo and carve out our path. It’s that out-of-the-box thinking that allows us to innovate, lead, and create change in a world that’s constantly evolving.
3. We speak up
Gen Xers know the power of our voice, and we’re not afraid to use it. Whether it's standing up for what we believe in, advocating for ourselves, or pushing back when something doesn’t feel right, we speak our minds. And trust me, when we talk, people listen.
4. We have a replicable skill that others can learn
We’ve mastered something along the way, and we’re not just keeping that knowledge to ourselves. Whether it's leadership, creativity, problem-solving, or resilience, we’ve developed teachable skills, allowing us to mentor others. We don’t just lead by example—we lead by sharing what we know.
5. We live by our own code
Gen Xers have a strong sense of self and live according to our own values and principles. We’re not swayed by trends, fads, or fleeting opinions. We know who we are, what we stand for, and we act accordingly. Our code is non-negotiable, and it guides us in everything we do.
6. We have the audacity to do what others only wish they could
Let’s be real—Gen Xers are bold. We don’t sit around fantasizing about the “what-ifs.” We take action. We do things that others are too scared to even attempt. Whether it's starting a business, making a major life shift, or speaking truth to power, we don’t just dream it—we make it happen.
7. We never, ever, ever give up
Call it grit, call it determination—whatever you want to call it, we’ve got it in spades. Gen Xers have faced adversity head-on, and no matter how many times we get knocked down, we always get back up. Failure isn’t the end; it’s just another step in the journey. We persist until we succeed.
8. We don’t listen to the haters
There will always be naysayers, but Gen Xers know better than to waste time on negativity. We’ve been underestimated, overlooked, and told we couldn’t—but we always prove them wrong. We keep our eyes on the prize, tune out the noise, and do what we need to do. Haters don’t define us—they just motivate us.
So, are you ready to own your Gen X badassery?
These traits aren’t just words—they’re how we live every day. We’re a generation that’s learned to thrive through adversity, think outside the box, and live life on our terms. We don’t just survive; we thrive. So go ahead, embrace your inner Gen X badass, and let the world know what we’re made of.
— Coach Dane
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