Every generation has its quirks that annoy others, and many times, we boomers do the same. I’m pretty self-aware. There are a few things we boomers do that quietly (or not so quietly) drive younger folks up the wall. It’s time to recognize that times have changed, and some behaviors could use a little update. So, here’s a lighthearted look at things my boomer friends might want to stop doing if we don’t want to drive everyone crazy.
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Talking about “kids these days” like they’re all lazy
Not all young people are on their phones all the time and not working hard. Times have changed, and honestly, every generation has its struggles; it’s not just the “kids.”
Saying that everything was better “back in my day”
Sure, we had it good sometimes. But things were also really bad back then. There were no easy fixes, and some progress made life easier (cheaper, more equal, better).
Refusing to learn new technology
Yeah, technology can be frustrating! But complaining about it all the time and refusing to learn makes people who can help us want to bang their heads against a wall.
Leaving voicemails for everything
My kids (and anyone under 50, really) look at a voicemail notification and think, “Why didn’t you just text me?” A quick text is better than a voicemail, almost all the time. Even I don’t want to call and enter my passcode to listen to a rambling message that might say, ‘it’s hot today.’ Just text me.
Forwarding chain emails or Facebook posts
Those “bad luck if you don’t forward” posts or emails are not helping anyone. Nobody wants them in their inbox. My email goes over capacity every other day because of these things. Check before you send.
Judging tattoos, piercings, or hair colors
Is someone’s hair blue, or do they have a sleeve tattoo? So what? It’s not a sign of rebellion or irresponsibility. It’s their personal style. We all have our own.
Saying “You’re too sensitive” when people share feelings
Telling someone who cares about something that they are being “too sensitive” about it is mean. Sometimes people just need to share how they’re feeling.
Making fun of pronouns or gender identity
There’s no need to fully understand every detail to be respectful and cool about it. Rolling your eyes or laughing about it makes you sound kind of like a jerk.
Assuming younger people don’t know anything about life
You and I know a lot about life and have lived a long time. But that doesn’t mean a younger person doesn’t have anything to offer. Give them a chance.
Telling people to “just buy a house”
There are a lot of things a lot of people can’t do anymore, even if they really want to. Buying a house is harder than it used to be. You may be helping your kids through it, but not everyone is that lucky.
Driving way under the speed limit
Safety first, we get it. But driving way under the speed limit or refusing to merge on the highway makes everyone super stressed and has to drive super slow too.
Using speakerphone in public
No one at your local coffee shop wants to listen to you go through your entire phone conversation in the middle of the room. Use good quality headphones, they are amazing now.
Dismissing mental health struggles
Telling people to “get over it” or “deal with it” when it comes to mental health issues is not helpful. In fact, that makes people who want to change it and help sound stupid. I know at least a couple of friends whose life would be much better if they just accept that they need some professional help.
Complaining about people working from home
Just because someone works remotely from home doesn’t mean they’re “playing video games all day and getting paid.” It’s just different from what you are used to and works well for many.
Thinking social media is ruining the world
Social media is a tool, like a phone or a car. You can use it well or poorly, but blaming people for bad things happening online isn’t right. It’s also a good way to reach and help young people.
Assuming respect is one-way, based on age
Respect has to be mutual; it’s not a one-way street. A lot of younger people will respect you and give you respect as long as you respect them. I know this from experience.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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