Well, the manufacturer's mark reads "Southern Beauty - Reg US Pat Off". Based on that, I'd tend to think it's some sort of cosmetic tool, but I can't come up with any sort of cosmetic use for it. The trigger obviously actuates the steel piston in the handle. Best guess, it's a stamp machine, since a piece of paper or thing leather is about the largest thing you could fit into the bottom slot. Though if that's the case, Patria wins since she guessed an embosser, and that's pretty much the same thing.
I would point out, however, that it is typical of any generation that your 40s and 50s are the core of your professional career, and hence that age group will tend to work more. In other words, the older managers work more hours than the younger workers in Average Corporate Office. Gen X just happens to be in the meat of that age bracket right now. We have several Gen Y types here in my office that are very hard workers and well motivated to succeed and improve -- an attitude which we encourage with regular raises and promotions.
I would point out, however, that it is typical of any generation that your 40s and 50s are the core of your professional career, and hence that age group will tend to work more. In other words, the older managers work more hours than the younger workers in Average Corporate Office. Gen X just happens to be in the meat of that age bracket right now. We have several Gen Y types here in my office that are very hard workers and well motivated to succeed and improve -- an attitude which we encourage with regular raises and promotions.
This ain't, as they say, rocket science.