The Third Place | What does Generation G look like?

I’m baaack!!

I was really excited to see the story about Starbucks yesterday and their quest to be #GenerationG! As you know #GenerationG is a conscious decision to be better every day—Be Accepting. Be Generous. Be Kind. While reading their statement I was really blown away by the founder of Starbucks, Howard Schultz, who used the term “The Third Place” that I truly believe in and that also happens to be the name of a chapter in my book, #GenerationG: A True Story of Miracles, Hope, and Unconditional Acceptance. 

“Without even knowing it, when we created GiGi’s, we were creating what those in community building refer to as “the third place.” It’s a common concept that many of us are familiar with, even if we aren’t consciously aware of it. The third place is a place that is neither work nor home, but where we each can feel comfortable to be ourselves. It’s where we are surrounded by friends and regulars, and where we go to feel at ease. It may be the barbershop, the local pub, or the nail salon. It’s the reason why places like the Elks Lodge, the Moose Lodge, or the American Legion exist. Over the years, these places have developed criteria, including that they be free or inexpensive, are highly accessible, involve regulars, and are welcoming and comfortable. Now, I don’t know about you, but that sounds like GiGi’s Playhouse to me!” Excerpt from #GenerationG

I was so excited to see that, like me, Howard Schultz saw the importance of that Third Place! That is how Starbucks was started!  I am happy he is now using it as a place to spread #GenerationG!! I just wish we made the money he did!

#GenerationG is a game changer and needed in our society TODAY!! We need to teach it to our young people every day, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, we need to model it every day—Be Accepting. Be Generous. Be Kind. When they see that conscious choice alive in every decision and every action on a daily basis, it becomes automatic for them. I’ve come to realize that the kind of acceptance I’m talking about requires a generational change, though it isn’t defined by age group. That’s what Generation G is about: inspiring the future generation to make that change, to fight for acceptance, and to never give up.

With 37 Playhouses and 200 more opening we have built our platform and now we must use it to spread the message of #GenerationG—and the community is stepping up to do the same! Look at Starbucks! Imagine how much we’d accomplish if the traits of Generation G were second nature to everyone!

Generation G is also about accountability for our actions and responsibility. It isn’t always easy to find the right thing to do even if you want to do good, and GiGi’s helps others discover how to make the world a better place. If someone is being picked on, it may not be easy to stand up to a bully or get help, but it’s the right thing to do. If someone is struggling or needs a friend, lending a hand to them is the right thing to do, even if you’re shy and have a hard time making friends yourself. Putting the needs of others first helps us practice selflessness and generosity, which in turn, helps us see the potential in others and ourselves.

So make yourself a promise−choose to lead by example every day and practice acceptance, generosity, and kindness. You may just see yours and the world of others, start to change for the greater good. You can take the pledge today and share your Generation G hand on social media, be sure to tag us! 

Now go grab an espresso from your favorite Third Place and spread some love!