I’ve had countless conversations with friends and family across different age groups, and one pattern keeps popping up: even though we all share this world, the generational divide can feel massive at times.

Now, I’m a boomer myself—born and raised before cell phones and email were everyday tools—but I can certainly understand where younger folks are coming from. 

Some of our well-intended habits or opinions can rub them the wrong way.

I’m not saying this to point fingers. Believe me, I’ve been guilty of most of these myself at one time or another. 

My hope is that by spotlighting these behaviors, we can bridge a gap and foster better connections. 

Because, if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that a little self-awareness can go a long way.

1. Glorifying “the good old days”

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve started a sentence with, “Back in my day…” 

It’s such a tempting habit because, to us, those old days really do feel special—music had soul (at least, that’s what we say), neighborhoods felt safer, and life seemed simpler without the constant ping of notifications. 

But from a younger person’s standpoint, hearing these nostalgic musings over and over can be grating.

They often feel that this glorification of the past belittles the present challenges they face, such as job competition, the rising cost of living, and the ever-present pressure to be connected online. 

Nostalgia is lovely in moderation, but when we paint the past as flawless, it implies that today’s world is somehow inferior. 

Younger generations are creating their own “good old days” right now—so maybe it’s time to acknowledge that.

2. Criticizing modern technology and communication

I remember the first time I laid eyes on my granddaughter’s TikTok feed.

I didn’t understand half of what was happening on the screen, and my initial reaction was to label it “nonsense.” 

But here’s the thing: technology evolves, and with it, the ways we communicate. 

What might seem frivolous to us can be a huge part of how younger folks connect, share creativity, and stay informed.

When we poke fun at or dismiss these platforms—be it TikTok, texting slang, or online gaming—we risk coming across as out of touch. 

Younger people see this criticism as a refusal to keep an open mind. 

I’m stating the obvious here, but perhaps we all need a reminder – our world doesn’t stand still. 

If the goal is genuine understanding, we might need to log on, learn a bit about these newfangled apps, and at least appreciate their role, even if we don’t embrace them wholeheartedly.

3. Handing out unsolicited advice

Let’s face it: we boomers are overflowing with life experience, and we genuinely want to help. 

Sometimes, though, we overdo it. 

Sharing a tip or two is wonderful—especially if someone asks—but younger generations often feel patronized by the endless “You know what you should do?” or “Back when I was your age…” statements.

I’ve been in situations where I caught myself launching into a lecture about career paths or “good investments” without being invited. 

It’s not that younger folks don’t appreciate guidance; they do. 

But there’s a big difference between a friendly suggestion and an unsolicited lecture. 

If we’re too pushy, it can come across as though we’re disregarding their capacity to figure things out on their own.

A tip I’ve found helpful is to ask first: “Hey, I’ve been through something similar—would you like to hear about it?” 

If they say yes, great; if not, that’s our cue to back off.

4. Oversimplifying mental health issues

There’s a long history of mental health being swept under the rug, especially by older generations. 

Growing up, I remember phrases like “suck it up” or “just get on with it” being tossed around liberally. 

The intent might have been to build toughness, but nowadays, younger people place a higher value on acknowledging mental health struggles and seeking professional support.

When boomers dismiss therapy, anxiety, or depression as “excuses” or “weakness,” it sends the message that these valid concerns aren’t worthy of attention or empathy. 

I’ve personally seen how powerful counseling can be—one of my close friends found it life-changing. 

According to the American Psychological Association, therapy can significantly improve emotional well-being and coping strategies. 

Younger folks know this and want to feel supported rather than brushed off. 

If we can learn to say, “I might not fully understand, but I’m here for you,” it can make a world of difference.

5. Clinging to traditional communication methods

I still jot down notes on paper and would rather pick up the phone than send a text, so I get it. 

But a large chunk of the younger crowd relies heavily on digital communication—texts, social media apps, voice notes, you name it.

When we insist on “the old-fashioned way” or label texting as impersonal, it can seem like we’re shutting down the main modes of communication that younger people rely on. 

Trust me, as soon as I realized I was missing out on updates from my grandkids because I didn’t text or hop on certain chat apps, I had a wake-up call. 

It’s not about abandoning our preferences; it’s about finding a middle ground. 

A quick text might not be as warm as a call, but it’s an efficient way to keep in touch, and younger generations appreciate that flexibility.

6. Being dismissive of new cultural shifts

Every generation has its own wave of cultural changes—from music and art to social justice movements and pop culture references. 

Sometimes, we boomers can be quick to roll our eyes and say, “Oh, these kids and their crazy ideas.” 

The problem is, that knee-jerk dismissal can feel disrespectful, especially when younger people are passionate about the issues they champion, be it environmental activism, inclusivity, or changes in workplace culture.

I’ve found it helpful to ask questions whenever I come across a new cultural trend or viewpoint I don’t immediately understand. 

For instance, recently, my niece talked my ear off about climate strikes and zero-waste living. 

My instinct was to say, “Well, that’s not practical.” 

But by just asking her, “How does that work for you day-to-day?” I learned more about the lengths she goes to in order to reduce her carbon footprint. 

We may not always end up agreeing, but showing genuine curiosity can foster mutual respect instead of resentment.

7. Refusing to adapt

As people who’ve been around the block a few times, we can feel we’ve earned the right to stick to our ways. 

And sure, there’s wisdom in traditions we hold dear. 

But if we dig in our heels on every little thing—be it changing our stance on social issues, acknowledging a shift in workplace norms, or embracing a new piece of tech—we run the risk of being perceived as rigid.

Younger generations thrive in environments that evolve. 

If we won’t even try to adjust our perspective, we’re basically slamming the door on progress. 

It’s not about giving up who we are; it’s about staying open to growth and fresh ideas, so the next generation sees us as partners rather than obstacles.

Wrapping up

I won’t pretend to have it all figured out, but after chatting with my kids, grandkids, and younger friends, I’ve learned that bridging the generational divide isn’t as impossible as it seems. 

It starts with respect—both for ourselves and the younger folks who are trying to navigate life in ways we never had to.

We may be set in some of our habits, sure, but a little flexibility goes a long way. 

We don’t have to abandon our cherished traditions or personal values; we just have to make space for new approaches. 

After all, isn’t the whole point of getting older to learn something new every day? 

So, let me leave you with this question:

What’s one thing you could shift in your perspective today that might make life a bit easier for those younger folks around you?

Because at the end of the day, the more we connect and empathize, the more fulfilling our relationships become—no matter which generation we belong to. 

And if we can pull that off, well, we’ll all be better for it in the long run.