Newer generations aren't against work, they're against bootlicking. And that's what really bothers employers.

Many managers think they deserve automatic respect just because they sign the checks. But they won't earn that respect until they genuinely care about their team's well-being and financial stability. If you want my loyalty, you have to prove to me that you're not squeezing every last drop out of me for your personal gain. Because if that's your approach, be sure that it will be my approach too.

Frankly, if your ego is so fragile that you need your employees to constantly stroke it for you to feel powerful, then you have bigger problems. That's not a management style, that's a personality flaw. Go see a professional.

I'm a Gen X'er, and frankly, I'm impressed by the strength of character I see in Millennials and Gen Z. They refuse to be exploited in ways my generation often was. Keep that fire. Don't let them grind you down. Never compromise your worth.