We’ve all been there. A baby boomer shares a piece of advice, confident it’s a treasure. You nod, but then wonder, “Does this really work today?” Times have changed, and so have the challenges we face.
Most boomers aren’t trying to be dismissive. Their advice comes from real experiences and hard times. But as the world shifts, some wisdom might feel outdated. Here are seven common pieces of boomer advice that can sound tone-deaf today.
1) Pull Yourself Up by Your Bootstraps
This classic advice urges us to take charge and work harder. It has its appeal; believing you control your destiny can be empowering. This mindset, called an internal locus of control, often drives people to act.
But there’s a downside. This advice can ignore critical realities: student debt, rising living costs, and job market barriers. When younger people hear “bootstraps,” they often feel blamed for their struggles instead of encouraged to act. A better approach is acknowledging what you can control while recognizing the systemic hurdles that exist.
2) Just Walk in and Ask for a Job
“Print your resume and go for it!” sounds straightforward, but it overlooks modern job-hunting realities. Today, showing initiative often means reaching out online or networking, not just walking into an office. My own experience in music blogging taught me that success often comes to those who understand online rules, not just those who take bold steps. Connecting through emails or LinkedIn is now essential.
3) Stay Loyal to One Company
Loyalty used to mean job security. But for many today, it feels like a losing game. Layoffs happen more frequently, and careers shift quickly. Younger workers often change jobs for better pay and opportunities. Instead of blind loyalty, focus on building your skills and professional network. Know your worth and remember that loyalty shouldn’t cost you your well-being.
4) Buy a House as Soon as You Can
The idea of homeownership as a goal is ingrained in many minds. But with soaring home prices and hefty down payments, it can seem impossible. While owning a house may have symbolized stability for boomers, many younger people now seek flexibility. Renting can be a valid long-term choice, and financial health is better measured by diverse assets rather than just homeownership.
5) Stop Buying Avocado Toast
This advice targets small luxuries that seem extravagant. Yes, cutting back on unnecessary spending can help. But reducing a $12 lunch won’t solve a much bigger issue like high rent or student loans. Younger generations often seek small comforts in stressful times. The focus should be on intentional spending—figuring out what truly adds value to your life rather than depriving yourself of small joys.
6) Work Hard and You’ll Be Rewarded
This phrase sounds hopeful but is often misleading. Many have worked hard yet see little reward, leading to frustration and burnout. Today’s workplace doesn’t always reward effort fairly. Instead of fixating solely on hard work, emphasize working smart. Focus on your achievements and protect your energy. Balance is key.
7) Respect Your Elders
While respecting elders is important, the meaning has evolved. Young people often seek mutual respect, not just deference based on age. The aim today is open conversation and shared learning. Both generations have knowledge to offer, so bridging this gap can lead to richer relationships.
In essence, much of boomer advice reflects past circumstances. If you cringe at these phrases, that’s okay. And if you’ve shared them, don’t feel bad. The key is to adapt this wisdom for today’s world. Keep the spirit but refine the details. Effective advice is about understanding and adapting to the present reality.
