1.      The Millenials are an interesting breed with their roots in late 80’s early 90’s birth and upbringing. As a Gen Y member myself, I have a unique view on the cultural environment that is going on around me. Many events have shaped this view and are shaping the world we live in today.

 

Some dominating events of the last couple of decades include the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. This has definitely shaped my worldview and led to the increased patriotism growing up. There was a flag on every lawn and the war on terror began. This lasted for about 10 years when recently in 2011, Osama Bin Laden was captured. President Obama becoming the first African American President was also a major event. This to me symbolized how far we had come in fighting racism. Another dominating event recently was the wedding of Kate Middleton to Prince William. The wedding was highly publicized and her dress dissected. I think it’s every girls dream that a “commoner” could become royalty. Harry Potter, Twilight and The Hunger Games are some of the major book series that I have gotten into. I think almost every American my age would recognize the name Harry Potter, especially with the opening of the theme park at Universal in Orlando. 



 

Some dominating ideas recently include the eco friendly craze. Finally something that actually benefits the environment! From bringing your own bags to Walmart to recycling, everyone can do their part. Zumba is an exercise craze that came around almost as a result of the obesity crisis in the nation. Another idea is that it’s ok to wear workout clothes everywhere (even at some churches) and it’s fine to look casual at work. This fashion idea is prevalent on every college campus.

 

There are many pop culture icons that dominate our social groups. Rebecca Black was most searched for on Google in 2011 with her hit song “Friday”. Where did she come from? Everyone had to find out. Other popular hits include Justin Bieber, Amy Winehouse, and Adele. These are the people the kids are currently idolizing? Can’t we go back to Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears? Oh wait, JT just married Jessica Biel this weekend…never mind. One death that hit the nation hard was Steve Jobs. He was a technological genius that designed several of the items that I use on a daily basis.

 

Speaking of technology, everyone wanted to know about the Ipad 2 and the Iphone 5 in 2011. I’m just lucky to have the 4 to keep up with Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest…the list could go on. My generation is obsessed with constant communication and always being informed. Our technology makes these goals very easy, even if we’re on the go. A year ago I felt so left out without a smartphone, and now I can’t imagine my life without one. We have become dependent on technology.

 

These are just a few of the things that shape my worldview and our current zeitgeist today. A forecaster could use this map to think about what is popular now, and project into the future. The issues discussed are the keys to marketing to Gen Y.

 

Google Zeitgeist. Retrieved from http://www.googlezeitgeist.com/en/top-lists/us/overall/google-com-fastest-rising.

Kate Middleton. Retrieved from http://whatkatewore.com/.