This month in the northern hemisphere we see the signs of spring everywhere--abundant greenery, blooming flowers, warming sunshine—as the cold weather recedes. In a word, spring is a time of re-birth.

Yet, as the southern hemisphere enters fall and winter, we are reminded that nature —and we are part of nature—works in cycles not a straight line upward trajectory. So with nature’s circularity in mind, this month we delve into an important yet less visible issue of diversity and inclusion that organization’s face in today’s post-pandemic period, especially in light of the “great resignation”.

Statistics show that while younger workers may be quitting in droves and reevaluating their career options, older workers are staying in the workforce longer than ever, remaining healthy and able to contribute long into their 70’s and beyond. The trouble is that many cultures exalt youth —to the detriment of older workers. And emergent talent needs mentorship, which can only be successfully provided across multiple generations.

This month we are joined for a webinar and CoachX Live event by an expert on the subject of age discrimination and intergenerational advocacy, Adrion Porter, who will share research and practical tips for coaches to raise their awareness of this less studied form of discrimination:

“We all need to sit back, and think about when we hire people… let’s not exclude someone because of the way they look, or their age. Talent is talent…especially when the benefits of ‘mutual mentorship’ between younger and older generations are a catalyst for overall team performance. We must identify efforts to amplify and accelerate ALL generations within the world of work.”

The wisdom and gifts of people in all life-stages—young adult through elderhood—are required to solve the most intractable problems of our time: climate change, social inequity, political/economic disruption. So this month let’s commit to honor the cycles of nature by leveraging the talents of all—at every stage.