Are You a Perennial? Why Mindset Matters More Than Age

In a world that loves to sort people by generation — Boomer, Millennial, Gen Z — we’re often asked to define ourselves by the year we were born. But what if there’s a more powerful, more accurate way to describe how we move through the world?

Enter the Perennial.

A Perennial is not defined by age, but by mindset. They’re not bound to a particular generation, trend, or era — they’re characterized by curiosity, adaptability, and a genuine connection to people across all walks of life.

This idea was first popularized by Gina Pell, who described Perennials as "ever-blooming, relevant people of all ages who know what’s happening in the world, stay curious, mentor others, and have friends of all ages."

In many ways, being a Perennial is about staying engaged — not because you’re trying to stay “young,” but because you value growth. You’re open to change. You seek common ground. You bring together the best of the past and the innovation of the present.

Being a Perennial means:

• You’re comfortable in rooms full of people older or younger than you.

• You care more about mindset than birth year.

• You resist labels and stay open to ideas, tools, and cultures beyond your immediate experience.

• You see yourself as always growing — not finished, but unfolding.

These are the kinds of people who thrive in today’s fast-changing world — especially in the workplace. They’re the team members who translate across generations, build bridges, and help companies navigate change without losing their soul.

So, are you one?

Here’s a visual checklist of 10 signs you may be a Perennial:

If you see yourself in this list — or you know someone who embodies this mindset — you’re not alone. And more importantly, you’re exactly what the future of work needs.

Want to know what your generational mindset is? Take the Generational Mindset Quiz!