Once jokingly referred to as “America’s neglected middle child*” Gen X is positioned to be the big winner in the move to the new gig economy. 

The strange part is hardly anyone seems to be talking about it. All the focus seems to be on Boomers (like me) who seem intent on never retiring or the Millenials who mastered the art of side gigs while still in College. Surely it is the Millenials, along with the shiny eyed Gen Zers who are already nipping at their heels, that will own the gig economy. How can those poor stuck in the middle Gen Xers hope to compete? Too young to know anything and too old to compete with the young tech entrepreneurs.

It might surprise you to know that people age 45-65 are twice as likely to be self employed than the 25-44 year olds. Now the 45-65 age group does include younger Boomers like myself, but the trend is undeniable. An increasing number of Gen Xers are self employed. Some of this results from downsizing, but it’s also true that many older workers are choosing to opt out of the corporate world. 

Today I want to share with you five reasons Gen Xers are positioned to be the big winners in the new gig economy.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I’d love to hear your thoughts, comments, and stories, or just make a connection.