Each one has its own way of thinking, talking, and seeing the world. Boomers, the generation that grew up in the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, have a number of iconic phrases that are close to their hearts. These phrases are often said with the best of intentions, but they can resonate in a completely different way for younger generations.
1. “Back in my day, we worked hard and didn’t complain”
Oh, this one! It’s probably the most well-known and impactful. While it’s said with a nostalgic smile, it can make younger generations cringe. Why? Because it implies that younger people today are lazy or entitled. But what about the economic realities today? Skyrocketing rents, student debt, and a hyper-competitive job market? We’re all for hard work, but the times have changed, plain and simple.
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2. “I pulled myself up by my bootstraps”
The famous “bootstrap” story. In the ’80s, this might have made sense. But today, this mindset often overlooks the societal structures and privileges that made “self-made” success possible. While boomers benefited from affordable education and booming economies, today’s younger generations have to navigate a much more difficult landscape.
3. “You’re just too sensitive”
This one usually comes up when discussing racism, sexism, or mental health. But the “sensitivity” in today’s world is often about awareness and a desire for change. Calling someone “too sensitive” downplays real experiences and can even be harmful. It’s not about being sensitive; it’s about being human!
4. “If you don’t like your job, just get another one”
Ok, we get the sentiment, but back in the ’70s, it was easier to land a job with minimal qualifications. Now, with a highly competitive job market, securing a decent job often requires multiple degrees, unpaid internships, and years of experience. So no, it’s not as simple as “just getting another job.”
5. “Why are you always on your phone?”
For boomers, phone use often feels like a sign of disconnection or addiction. But for younger people, phones aren’t just for entertainment—they’re tools for work, connection, education, and even activism. It’s a critical part of modern life, and framing phone use as inherently bad misses the point. The irony? Boomers are one of the fastest-growing demographics on Facebook.
6. “We never needed therapy—people just dealt with their problems”
This phrase is usually said with a proud shrug, as if mental health struggles should just be brushed off. But today, we know that ignoring emotional pain doesn’t make it go away—it just buries it. Therapy isn’t a weakness; it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. Younger generations are choosing healing over silence.
7. “I don’t see color—we’re all the same”
This may sound like a nice expression of unity, but it misses the point. “Not seeing color” often ignores important conversations about race, discrimination, and systemic inequality. The goal isn’t to be “colorblind”—it’s to actively fight racism.
8. “You should buy a house instead of renting—stop wasting money”
Back in the day, buying a house was simple. Today, with skyrocketing housing prices and stagnant wages, this advice can seem completely out of touch. Renting isn’t a sign of financial irresponsibility; for many, it’s the only option available.
9. “You need to stay loyal to one company—job hopping looks bad”
Boomers grew up in a time when staying with one company meant stability, promotions, and a pension. But today, the job market rewards adaptability. Job hopping often leads to better pay and more opportunities. Clinging to old ideals of corporate loyalty can actually hold you back.
10. “Kids today have it so easy”
This is the ultimate catch-all phrase. It dismisses the very real challenges of modern life and idealizes a past that wasn’t always as easy or fair as it’s often remembered. Yes, some things are easier now—like ordering food or accessing information—but other things, like affording healthcare or navigating social media pressures, are way harder.
