Gen X may be overlooked by marketers, but they've impacted everything from music to fashion to politics. Now that they’re in their 40s, they’ve replaced drug-fuelled raves with dinner and diapers – but that doesn't mean they're any less cool, as Tiffanie Darke, author of Now We Are 40, tells Canvas8.

As Gen X reach middle age, they’re growing more concerned about their finances yet remain unprepared for retirement. Additionally, they’re setting off alarm bells with their health problems and heavy drinking. How did they get in such bad shape? And what can be done to address their varied crises?

Though they were seen as ‘slackers’ in their youth, research suggests that Gen Xers are actually the hardest workers and best bosses. But what do they enjoy about the daily grind? Canvas8 spoke to British men and women aged 35-49 to find out how they feel about their careers and the workplace.

The slacker stereotype that clung to Gen Xers during their formative years has seemingly faded away, with surveys now suggesting that both their older and younger colleagues rank them as the hardest working employees and bosses. What makes this group so valuable in the workplace?