15 Boomer Customs That Are Rude to Today’s Generation

In a world where avocado toast is basically a financial investment and memes are the universal language, some traditions just don’t stand the test of time.

What once seemed like common courtesy or a way of life for Boomers now feels outdated—or downright baffling—to younger generations. From the surprise drop-by visit (please, just text first!) to the unsolicited life advice that somehow always involves buying a house (as if that’s easy), these customs have millennials and Gen Z rolling their eyes harder than a Windows 95 reboot.

Whether it’s the obsession with paper bills in a digital age, phone calls that could’ve been a text, or the art of passive-aggressive commentary disguised as helpful feedback, some habits just don’t translate.

Join us as we break down 15 Boomer customs that younger generations simply can’t get behind—and maybe, just maybe, wish would fade into nostalgic oblivion.

1. Commenting on Weight—All the Time

Boomers have an uncanny knack for turning greetings into personal evaluations. “You’ve gained some weight!” or “You’re too skinny, are you eating?” they declare with a smile. It’s a never-ending game where the scoreboard doesn’t exist.

You could argue they’re just concerned, but it feels more like uninvited criticism wrapped in a friendly package. Younger generations prefer compliments that don’t involve body metrics.

In this world of body positivity, unsolicited comments on weight are as welcome as a mosquito at a barbecue. Perhaps it’s time to weigh words more carefully.

2. Showing Up Unannounced

Boomers seem to believe that “I was in the neighborhood” is a magical phrase that erases the need for prior notice. Popping in unannounced feels more like a jump scare than a surprise visit.

Millennials and Gen Z, however, require at least three business days and a Google Calendar invite to prepare for company. Unannounced visits disrupt the delicate balance of a well-planned day, potentially derailing productivity or leisure time.

A simple text or call beforehand could prevent the shock of unexpected guests, because the knock of surprise can be quite jarring.

3. Calling Instead of Texting

For Boomers, the telephone is a portal to deep, meaningful conversations—often when a quick text would suffice. There’s nothing quite like diving into a rambling call only to hear “Call me back” in a voicemail.

Younger folks prefer the brevity of text messages, keeping communication efficient and to the point. This saves time, allowing everyone to multitask like pros.

While a phone call can be heartwarming, its unexpected nature feels like a pop quiz on emotions. A casual text first? Now, that’s the right call to make.

4. Giving Unsolicited Life Advice

Boomers are the self-appointed sages of life, dishing out advice like, “Oh, you don’t own a house yet? Have you tried not buying coffee?” It’s as if skipping avocado toast will magically produce a down payment.

While well-intentioned, such advice often misses the mark in today’s economy. Financial challenges aren’t solved with simple budget tweaks.

Younger generations seek empathy and understanding rather than quick fixes. Acknowledging the complexities of modern life would be far more helpful than offering solutions from a playbook that’s seen better days.

5. Invading Personal Space

Boomers love to express affection through physical gestures, whether it’s a back pat, arm grab, or unsolicited cheek pinch. Personal space, however, is a cherished commodity for younger folks.

In a world where personal boundaries are increasingly respected, such intrusions can be uncomfortable and unwelcome. Affection doesn’t have to come in the form of surprise hugs.

A nod, a wave, or even a socially-distanced air hug might be more suitable alternatives. It’s time to embrace less invasive ways of showing you care—metaphorically speaking, of course.

6. Telling Women to “Smile More”

Nothing makes younger generations roll their eyes harder than hearing, “You’d look so much prettier if you smiled.” It’s as if resting face is some kind of fashion faux pas.

This unsolicited advice is not only outdated but also unwelcome. Women today prefer to express their emotions authentically, without the pressure to perform happiness.

The demand to “smile more” comes across as an attempt to control someone’s demeanor rather than a genuine concern for their well-being. How about letting smiles come naturally, when they’re genuine and heartfelt?

7. Asking When You’re Getting Married or Having Kids

For Boomers, life is a checklist: marriage, house, 2.5 kids, eternal satisfaction. Asking when you’re getting married or having kids feels like a gentle nudge down a pre-set path.

Younger generations, however, prefer to navigate life at their own pace, exploring different paths and possibilities. Such questions often feel intrusive rather than supportive.

Instead of prodding into personal timelines, why not celebrate achievements and milestones as they come? Embracing diverse life choices could lead to more meaningful connections.

8. Bragging About “Working Through the Pain”

Boomers take pride in never taking sick days and working 60-hour weeks. It’s as if exhaustion is a badge of honor. Meanwhile, younger generations prioritize mental health and work-life balance.

Bragging about enduring hardship might impress some, but it often neglects the importance of self-care. Today’s workforce recognizes that well-being leads to better productivity and satisfaction.

Perhaps it’s time to champion the virtues of rest and recuperation. After all, being a workaholic isn’t the only way to succeed in life—or even the best way.

9. Writing Checks in the Checkout Line

Nothing halts the momentum of a speedy checkout like a Boomer pulling out a checkbook. As if time stands still, they lick the pen tip and start their slow-motion payment.

With digital payments offering speed and convenience, writing checks feels like a nostalgic trip to the past. Younger shoppers tap their cards or phones, breezing through the line.

While checks have their charm, adapting to modern payment methods could save everyone time and frustration. After all, time is money—or at least worth the cost of a card swipe.

10. Dismissing Mental Health

“Back in my day, we didn’t need therapy—we just sucked it up,” says Grandpa. Cool story, but ignoring emotions isn’t a personality trait. Younger generations prioritize mental health, seeking support and understanding.

Dismissing therapy often undermines the importance of emotional well-being. Today’s society recognizes the value of addressing mental health proactively.

Perhaps it’s time to replace skepticism with support, allowing open conversations about mental health. Acknowledging its significance could help build bridges between generations, fostering empathy and understanding.

11. Keeping the Thermostat at “Arctic Winter”

Boomers seem to believe any temperature above 68 degrees is an act of treason. Wrapped in blankets, younger folks wonder why they must endure an indoor winter.

The thermostat wars are a classic clash of comfort versus conservation. While Boomers aim for efficiency, younger generations seek a cozy environment.

Finding a middle ground could resolve this frosty feud. Perhaps a sweater or a warm drink could help bridge the temperature divide, creating a more harmonious home atmosphere.

12. Telling Stories That Drag On Forever

What begins as “One time I went to the store…” morphs into a 15-minute saga with unrelated side plots. Boomers love a good yarn, but younger generations crave concise narratives.

In a world where attention spans are shrinking, getting to the point is a valuable skill. Long-winded tales often leave listeners lost in a sea of details.

Editing stories for clarity and brevity can keep audiences engaged and entertained. A well-timed punchline or surprising twist could make all the difference.

13. Bringing Up Politics at Thanksgiving

It starts with an innocent comment about mashed potatoes and spirals into a rant on “kids these days” and “how things used to be.” Thanksgiving becomes a political battlefield.

Younger generations prefer to keep the peace, focusing on gratitude and togetherness. Bringing up contentious topics can lead to unnecessary tension.

Choosing neutral or light-hearted subjects might preserve the holiday spirit. After all, thankfulness is best shared over pumpkin pie rather than political debates.

14. Forwarding Chain Emails and Facebook Conspiracies

Boomers love a good “If you don’t forward this to 10 people, bad luck will follow you” email. And the Facebook conspiracies? Let’s not even go there.

Such chains and dubious theories are more likely to cause eye rolls than enlightenment. Younger folks prefer fact-checking and credible sources.

Encouraging critical thinking and discerning information sources might turn these email epics into teachable moments. After all, knowledge is power—not just something you share in chain messages.

15. Not Understanding Boundaries on Social Media

Boomers will comment “Who’s that boy?” under group photos or leave a 3-paragraph reply to a meme. They might even think “LOL” means “Lots of Love.”

Navigating social media etiquette is a learning curve. Younger generations value privacy and concise interactions, often finding Boomers’ oversharing overwhelming.

Understanding platform norms can foster positive online experiences for all. A quick lesson in digital decorum might just bridge the gap between emojis and endless paragraphs.