15 Things Gen Z Does That Boomers Just Don’t Get
Generational differences are more than just a matter of age. Gen Z’s habits, preferences, and values often leave Boomers scratching their heads. It could be how they manage work, family, or social life; some of their choices are difficult for older generations to understand.
Here are some things Gen Z does that cause their elders to wonder, “What’s the deal?”
Job Hopping
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Newer workers frequently change jobs, often seeking better pay or roles that align with their skills. This perspective is different from the one adults follow, which values long-term job security and loyalty.
Valuing Mental Health
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Discussing mental health openly is normal among younger people today, who prioritize wellness and therapy. It’s a far cry from the “tough it out” mentality many Boomers had, where personal struggles were kept private. Now, it’s important to seek help to stay mentally healthy.
Prioritizing Work-Life Balance
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Instead of the relentless grind that defined previous generations, Gen Z is embracing a “soft life,” which prioritizes relaxation, self-care, and minimal stress. They work smarter, not harder, and focus on living a balanced lifestyle. This can be strange for people raised on the idea that dedication leads to success.
Staying at Home Longer
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With sky-high housing costs, many young people find it tough to afford their own place and stay in the same house as their parents longer. This doesn’t mean that they are avoiding responsibility. It’s a clever and practical response to an unaffordable housing market. Boomers who expect to move out as soon as possible find this trend unusual.
Skipping Religious Services
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Many people these days tend to be less religious, with some even identifying as unaffiliated or spiritual but not religious. Boomers, who grew up attending church regularly, often struggle to understand why Gen Z doesn’t prioritize religion in the same way and remains loyal to a deity.
Renting Instead of Buying
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Many younger people feel that owning a home is increasingly out of reach, especially due to rising housing prices. Renting has become a viable and flexible option in the long term. While adults view homeownership as an achievement, the younger ones often see it as a burden they don’t need to carry.
The Avocado Toast Meme
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It’s a mainstream joke that young people’s love for avocado toast is to blame for their financial struggles, but the reality is quite complex. Cutting back on small luxuries won’t come close to reducing the high cost of living, yet this stereotype often pops up in discussions about finances.
Content Creation as a Career
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Becoming an influencer or content creator is a legitimate career path that is quite common now. Sites like TikTok and YouTube have made it easier than ever to build an audience and create a source of income. But Boomers who worked in traditional 9-to-5 jobs find this difficult to grasp, as it doesn’t follow the usual career path.
Texting in Quick, Short Bursts
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Rather than sending long, detailed messages, Gen Z often texts in quick, short bursts with abbreviations and emojis. This informal style of communication may seem sloppy to those who are accustomed to complete sentences and proper punctuation.
Celebrity Fascination
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Older generations were once drawn to movie stars, but today’s youth is obsessed with a new kind of celebrity: online influencers. These digital creators, often seen on different social media platforms, greatly impact younger audiences. Boomers, however, may find it difficult to comprehend why someone who has no traditional “star power” is so widely adored.
Labeling and Inclusivity
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Labels are a tool for inclusivity and respect that help to create an empathetic society. Whether it’s gender identity or cultural preferences, the youth feel that labels are essential for respecting differences. However, not everyone sees it this way.
Not Wanting Children
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An increasing number of young people are opting not to have children, citing the financial burden of raising kids or simply not having the desire to become parents. This decision is often incomprehensible to grown-ups who viewed parenthood as a natural and expected step in their lives.
Being Attached to Their Phones
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Spending time on phones is a way of life for younger people, who often spend hours a day on social media, texting, and browsing. These devices are essential for staying connected and informed. This is hard for older people, especially since they didn’t grow up using smartphones.
Calling Out Bad Behavior
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The youth isn’t afraid to speak out against bad behavior or injustice. They use social media to call out toxic actions and demand accountability. Elders who may have been more inclined to ignore issues or let things slide consider this outspoken approach confrontational or unnecessary.
Taking Pictures of Food
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Posting pictures of meals has become a regular part of social media culture. The goal is to share experiences and moments with friends and followers. However, some might find it excessive or vain, not appreciating the appeal of capturing a meal for public display.