There’s a clear divide between generations, and nothing highlights this gap more than the phrases boomers often use about “these days”.

What they say might seem innocuous to them, but to younger generations – it’s eye-roll inducing.

It’s not just about the words, though. It’s about the tone, the implication, and the nostalgia for a time that seems outdated to younger ears.

In this article, we will discuss 9 things boomers say about ‘these days’ that make younger people roll their eyes” As we navigate these phrases together, you might find yourself smirking, nodding in agreement, or simply shaking your head.

But hey, that’s what makes generational differences so interesting!

1) Back in my day…

Ah, the classic “back in my day” phrase. Boomers are notorious for this one. It’s as if the past was some golden era of perfection that modern times simply can’t hold a candle to.

But here’s the thing: every generation has its own unique challenges and triumphs. The world may have changed, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s worse.

For younger folks, hearing “back in my day” over and over again can be tiresome. Especially when it’s followed by a comparison that makes current times seem inferior.

It’s not just the phrase itself that causes eye-rolling – it’s the dismissal of today’s world as somehow less worthy. So next time you hear this phrase, perhaps gently remind them that “these days” have their own merits too.

2) Kids these days have it easy…

This is a personal favorite of mine. I remember sitting at the dinner table one evening when my uncle, a boomer through and through, casually dropped, “Kids these days have it easy. In my time, we had to work harder for everything.”

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m sure growing up in his time had its own challenges. But his statement made it seem like our generation has it all handed to us on a silver platter.

And let’s be honest, that’s far from the truth. Yes, we have technology that makes certain aspects of life easier. But we also face new challenges like an uncertain job market, skyrocketing cost of education and living, and let’s not forget the global pandemic!

So yes, Uncle Jim, kids these days might have it “easy” in some ways, but we’re also navigating a world that’s drastically different from the one you grew up in.

3) Technology is ruining everything…

It’s not uncommon to hear a boomer lament about how technology is supposedly ruining everything. From social skills to the job market, nothing seems safe from the destructive power of tech in their eyes.

However, it’s worth noting that technology has actually created more jobs than it has destroyed. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, 12 million more jobs will be created than destroyed due to technological advancement.

Moreover, technology has also brought about improvements in various fields such as healthcare, education, and communication. It’s not all doom and gloom as some might make it out to be. So maybe, just maybe, technology isn’t the big bad wolf it’s often portrayed as.

4) You’re always on your phone…

This one is a classic. The sight of a younger person engrossed in their smartphone often elicits this remark from boomers. “You’re always on your phone!” they exclaim, as if the device were some sort of life-sucking leech.

In reality, our phones are much more than just phones. They’re our connection to the world – a tool for learning, working, communicating and so much more.

Sure, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid overuse. But it’s just as important to understand that times have changed and this small device now plays a crucial role in our lives. So maybe, the next time you see someone “always on their phone”, consider that they might just be getting things done.

5) Music was better in my day…

Oh, the old music debate. It seems that every boomer is convinced that the music of their era was the pinnacle of auditory art. “Music was better in my day,” they’ll say with a nostalgic sigh.

But here’s the thing: music, like any form of art, is subjective. What one person finds melodious, another might find grating. And every era has its share of both groundbreaking and forgettable music.

It’s also worth noting that thanks to the internet and streaming services, we now have access to a wider range of music than ever before – including all those classic hits boomers hold dear.

So while it’s fine to have a personal preference for a certain era of music, declaring it universally superior might just earn you an eye-roll or two from the younger crowd.

6) Your generation lacks respect…

This sentiment, often expressed as “your generation lacks respect”, can be particularly hurtful. It’s a sweeping generalization that dismisses the individual values and actions of an entire generation.

Respect, like many aspects of human interaction, has evolved over time. What was once seen as respectful behavior might now be viewed as outdated or unnecessary. That doesn’t mean younger generations are disrespectful; it just means they express respect differently.

Younger generations, for example, tend to place a high value on authenticity and equality. They may not adhere to certain traditional norms, but they show respect in other ways – such as advocating for social justice or speaking out against discrimination.

At the end of the day, respect is about treating others with kindness and understanding. And that’s something that transcends all generations.

7) You can’t take a joke…

I still remember a family gathering where my cousin made a joke at my expense. I didn’t find it funny, so I expressed my displeasure. Instead of an apology, I got the response, “You can’t take a joke.”

This phrase is often thrown around when someone crosses a line under the guise of humor. What boomers may deem harmless teasing, younger generations may find offensive.

Humor is subjective and what one person finds funny, another might find hurtful. It’s not about not being able to take a joke; it’s about respecting boundaries and understanding that what might have been acceptable in the past may not be anymore.

So if a joke doesn’t land well, maybe it’s time to reconsider the punchline instead of questioning the listener’s sense of humor.

8) What’s with all the avocado toast…

Let’s talk about avocado toast. To some boomers, this millennial favorite epitomizes the perceived frivolity of younger generations. “What’s with all the avocado toast?” they might ask, puzzled by our obsession with this green fruit.

But here’s the thing: every generation has its own food trends. In the ’70s, it was fondue parties. In the ’80s, it was sushi. Today, it’s avocado toast.

And it’s not just about food. This criticism often extends to other lifestyle choices made by younger generations, from minimalist living to prioritizing experiences over possessions.

So next time you hear a comment about avocado toast, remember: it’s not really about the toast. It’s about embracing the changing tastes and values of a new generation.

9) Things were simpler back then…

Perhaps the most common phrase of all is “things were simpler back then.” It’s a nostalgic nod to a time before technology and global connectivity, when life was supposedly less complicated.

But the reality is, every era comes with its own complexities and challenges. Yes, we might live in a fast-paced, tech-driven world, but we also have unprecedented opportunities for learning, growth and connection.

The truth is, simplicity and complexity are largely a matter of perspective. And just as the world continues to evolve, so too should our understanding of it.

So the next time you hear “things were simpler back then”, remember: simplicity isn’t about going backwards, it’s about finding clarity in the here and now.