Essay about the

Interview of Simon Sinek with Tom Bilyeu

When he answers the Millennial Question

In an interesting interview with Tom Bilyeu, Simon Sinek talks about the challenges Millennials
face and how our society affects these difficulties. He declares that the answer can characterized into four
parts, “Parenting, Technology, Impatience, and Environment.” Throughout the Interview, Simon is very
zealous, humorous, empathetic, and apologetic.

Sinek starts by addressing some wrong ideas about Millennials. He says that Millennials are said
to be entitled, narcissistic, self-interested, unfocused, lazy, and challenging to manage; however, they
seek to work where they can have a purpose and make an impact. Simon does a great job breaking down
the issues surrounding millennials and their challenges. Still, the frustrating thing is how leaders are
careless and not taking action to these challenges. Simon thinks that the idea of Millennials feeling
entitled comes from their upbringing. He states that many millennials "grew up subject to failed parenting
strategies." Some parents made them feel too special and rewarded them for everything that made them
feel less confident or lowered their self-esteem when they dealt with the real world. That makes them feel
worse.

Another problem to compound is we’re growing up in a social media world. Simon says that we
are good at putting filters on things. We're good at showing people that life is good, even though we’re
depressed. Everyone appears to be tough, and everybody sounds like they've got it figured out, and the
reality is there's very little toughness, and most people don't have it figured out. That is one of the reasons
why we have an entire generation growing up with lower self-esteem than previous generations.

Now, let us add in technology. Sinek also talks about technology and social media. He says that
these things can be addictive, like a drug, because they make our brains release a feel-good chemical
called dopamine. Dopamine is the same chemical that causes us to feel good when we smoke cigarettes,
drink, or gamble. Too much can harm our mental health, causing different problems like depression. So,
Simon suggests that we use technology more wisely and not overdo it because, like any addiction, it will
destroy relationships over time, cost time and money, and make things worse for us.

Impatience is another issue Sinek brings up. Millennials grew up in a world where they can get
things instantly, like fast food. We grew up in a world of instant satisfaction, which makes us less patient,
especially when it comes to relationships and careers that take time to develop. Millennials will never find
true, deep fulfillment in their work or life. They'll just walk through life, and it's alright. That is why
Sinek believes learning to be patient and persistent is essential for a good life.

Sinek also talks about how big companies can make life harder for Millennials. He says these
companies often care more about making quick money than taking care of their employees for the long
term. Which can make young professionals feel disappointed. Sinek's main point is that we shouldn't
blame Millennials for their challenges but rather the companies and leaders who don't support them
properly.

Lastly, Simon Sinek stated that people in the older generation now have a responsibility to make
up the shortfall and to help the new generations build their confidence, learn patience, learn social skills,
and find a balance between technology and life because they don't have a choice in the industry, whether
they like it or not, frankly, it is the right thing to do.

Reference:

Sinek, O. [Simon Sinek] (2016, December 31) The Millennial Question [Video] Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vudaAYx2IcE&t=34s

(Sinek, 2016)
Sinek (2016)