I Don't Know About This... Doesn't Look Like Much... Probably Don't Need It

But for those who want a guide on the present generations and on how a couple of them can get along better, then this L.A. Daily News article is for you.

SILENT GENERATION: 49 million, born between 1933 and 1945
Formative events and trends: Great Depression and World War II
Personality traits: Disciplined, self-sacrificing, cautious

BOOMERS: 77 million, born between 1946 and 1964
Formative events and trends: economic prosperity, stay-at-home moms, Vietnam War
Personality traits: Optimistic, driven, team-oriented

GENERATION X: 59 million, born between 1965 and 1980
Formative events and trends: Watergate, Iran-Contra scandal, latchkey kids
Personality traits: Skeptical, unimpressed with authority, self- reliant

MILLENNIALS: 80 million, born after 1980
Formative events and trends: End of Cold War, rise of Internet, child-centered families
Personality traits: Confident, hopeful, goal-oriented, civic- minded, inclusive

Boomers say Xers: Aren't loyal; have no work ethic; aren't committed; are self-centered; have no respect.

Xers say boomers: Are too political; don't practice what they preach; are workaholics; need validation; are self-righteous.

How the generations can bridge the gap:
Xers should: Show respect for boomers' experience; take some time and get to know boomers as people; call boomers by name and check in with them ("How was your ski trip?"); choose face-to-face conversation when possible.
Boomers should: Get to the point (Xers prefer a straightforward approach); avoid cliche and hyperbole; use e-mail when it's appropriate.

Feel free to discuss among yourselves.