As a Gen Xer, I have noticed that my friends and family have been caught quietly, in a generational tension between boomers and millennials. I’ve noticed it has shaped our workplaces, our media and even boardrooms.  Quite frankly, I think people are just tired of it. Meanwhile, Gen X—the generation no one talks about—quietly built a business model that Gen Z and Alpha are now looking to for inspiration.

The Forgotten Generation That Is Shaping Business Today

While Boomers and Millennials fought for the spotlight, Gen X was busy adapting. Born between 1965 and 1980, they navigated economic downturns, the rise of the internet, and shifting workplace cultures—not by disrupting or resisting but by evolving. Their resilience, adaptability, and pragmatic leadership quietly shaped the business world we see today.

The impact of their approach is undeniable in today’s startup world.

Why Gen X is the Ideal Business Model for Startups

1. Tech as a Tool, Not an Identity

Gen X was the last generation to grow up without the internet and the first to integrate it into business. That means they see technology as a tool, not a personality trait.

While Millennials embraced rapid technological change and Boomers valued traditional business methods, Gen X found a balance—adopting tech strategically while staying grounded in fundamentals.

• They don’t adopt tech just because it’s trending—they use it strategically.
• They prioritize tools that drive efficiency over chasing the next big thing.
• They build businesses that last instead of ones that go viral and burn out.

For Gen Z entrepreneurs navigating AI, automation, and digital trends, this mindset is invaluable. Unlike Gen X, who had to manually streamline operations, Gen Z and Alpha have automation at their fingertips—removing tedious tasks so they can focus on strategy, creativity, and scaling their businesses faster than ever before.

2. Bootstrapping Over Burnout

Gen X built businesses with limited resources, real profitability, and long-term sustainability.

While Millennials entered a startup culture that prioritized rapid scaling and VC funding, Gen X founders had to figure things out on their own.

Lessons they bring to today’s entrepreneurs:

• Lean operations win over bloated, overfunded startups.
• Cash flow matters more than hype.
• Survival beats short-term success.

3. Values-Driven Leadership Without the Noise

While Gen Z is vocal about purpose-driven work, Gen X simply built businesses that reflected their values.

• They didn’t need to brand every move as a mission—they just ran ethical companies.
• They focused on long-term impact over short-term marketing stunts.
• They built trust through action, not slogans.

In an era of performative branding, this no-nonsense approach is more relevant than ever.

4. Mentorship Over Micromanagement

Gen X learned leadership from Boomers, then adapted it for a workforce that craved independence.

• They don’t micromanage; they mentor.
• They don’t dictate; they guide.
• They understand work-life balance and let employees thrive on their terms.

For younger entrepreneurs, this means finding business mentors who offer wisdom, not just hype.

What Younger Entrepreneurs Can Learn from Gen X

✅ Adopt Tech with Intention – Use what works, ignore the noise.

✅ Bootstrap Smarter – Build sustainable, lean businesses.

✅ Lead by Doing – Values should be embedded in your work, not just your marketing.

✅ Find a Mentor, Not Just a Trend – Learn from those who built real, lasting success.

The Next Generation’s Business Role Models

If you’re a Gen Z or Gen Alpha entrepreneur, take a page from Gen X’s playbook. Look for mentors who have built sustainable businesses, focus on long-term success over short-term hype, and adopt technology with intention—not as a crutch.

Start by evaluating your own approach: Are you chasing trends, or are you building something that will last? Find a Gen X mentor, study their methods, and apply their principles to create a business that thrives, not just survives.

Gen Z and Alpha aren’t following the Millennial startup model—they’re looking at Gen X for balance, resilience, and sustainability. Gen X had to build businesses manually, adapting to each shift in the landscape. Now, Gen Z and Alpha have the advantage of technologies already in place. They can use Gen X’s mindset while speeding it up with AI and automation.

The combination of timeless business fundamentals and cutting-edge technology will define the next generation of successful entrepreneurs.

Gen X didn’t chase trends—they built legacies. Now, it’s your turn to do the same.

If this resonates with you, let’s talk—who’s a Gen X mentor you admire? Drop a comment or share this with someone who needs to read it.