Last week, I was on the phone with my daughter, who was telling me to “set better boundaries” with my neighbor. He occasionally borrows my hedge trimmer. I listened, nodding while internally rolling my eyes. It was the third time I heard about boundaries that month. Do our adult kids think we’ve gone through life without any awareness?
I love my children. They’re smart and caring. But some phrases come up so often that I feel like I’m hearing a familiar jingle on repeat. And it seems I’m not alone in this.
### 1) “You need to set better boundaries”
Boundaries are a hot topic now. I get it. But after decades of handling workplace politics and raising kids, I know when to say yes or no. Sometimes, lending my hedge trimmer is just being neighborly in a disconnected world.
### 2) “OK, Boomer”
This phrase hits hard. My son jokingly said it when I suggested he save money by not ordering takeout. Ironically, I’m the one who taught him to cook. Dismissing an entire generation’s experience with a phrase feels unfair.
### 3) “You should really be on social media”
I’ve mastered texting and group chats, but apparently, I’m missing out without Instagram or TikTok. The urge to document every moment is overwhelming. When did sharing become more important than living?
### 4) “That’s not how things work anymore”
Change is constant. I’ve seen monumental shifts in my lifetime. But just because things have changed doesn’t mean all older ways were wrong. Sometimes, a handwritten thank-you note or a phone call is still meaningful.
### 5) “You need to live your truth”
It used to mean being honest, but now it seems to justify any decision. Truth shouldn’t be entirely subjective. Sometimes, it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.
### 6) “You wouldn’t understand”
This one stings. I’ve dealt with workplace stress and financial issues myself. Just because the challenges look different today doesn’t mean I haven’t faced my own struggles.
### 7) “You need to practice more self-care”
Self-care is great, but it often feels overused. My generation found joy in simple things—like a stroll or coffee with a friend. It’s okay to find meaning in caring for others, too.
### 8) “That’s toxic”
The term “toxic” is thrown around too loosely. Disagreements or unmet expectations aren’t necessarily toxic. Real toxicity exists, but not every difficulty is grounds for cutting someone off.
### 9) “You should talk to someone about that”
Therapy is beneficial. However, not every challenge needs professional help. Sometimes it’s okay to just have a bad day without dissecting every feeling.
### 10) “You’re not getting any younger”
Yes, I’m not getting younger, and I don’t want to. I’ve embraced my years and the wisdom they bring. Each decade has its gifts, and the experiences shape who I am.
### Final thoughts
At the end of the day, we’re all just doing our best with the tools we have. Our adult children mean well with their advice, just like we once did when giving our own suggestions. The fatigue comes from the assumption that we’re out of touch.
Love may speak different languages across generations, but it remains the same—unconditional and enduring. Understanding each other can bridge the gap, as we all navigate life differently but with the same goal: connection and support.
### The Impact of Generational Communication
Interestingly, a study from the Pew Research Center found that about 40% of adults believe that misunderstandings between generations have increased in recent years. Each generation has unique perspectives shaped by different events and technologies. Recognizing this can lead to more empathy and connection.
In the end, it’s about learning and growing together, regardless of age.
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