Each generation is shaped by its unique values, challenges, and experiences, which influence how its members view the world. Baby Boomers, who grew up during a time of economic growth, traditional work ethics, and rapid technological advancements, often have different perspectives compared to Gen X, Millennials, or Gen Z. For instance, a GI Group Holdings report shows that work is highly valued by Baby Boomers (94%) and Gen X (78%), while Millennials (61%) and Gen Z (39%) place greater emphasis on finding purpose beyond their jobs.
These generational gaps often manifest in complaints Boomers have about today’s world, which younger generations may struggle to relate to. But are these differences purely generational, or do they indicate broader societal shifts? Below are 16 common grievances Boomers often voice, and why younger generations may not understand them.
“People Don’t Look Up From Their Phones”
Many Boomers lament the constant presence of smartphones and see them as a barrier to meaningful connections. They grew up in a time when the phone was a shared home appliance and socializing required face-to-face interaction.
Younger generations, however, view their phones as tools for staying connected. For them, texting a friend or FaceTiming a family member is just as valid as an in-person connection. In fact, according to Crown Counselling, as of 2025, the global average screen time stands at a substantial 6 hours and 40 minutes per day on internet-connected screens.
“Nobody Uses Cash Anymore”
Decades ago, cash carried both literal and symbolic weight. For Boomers, spending money involved physically handing over bills, making every transaction feel tangible.
Younger generations, who grew up with debit cards, Venmo, and digital wallets, prioritize convenience over the tactile experience of cash. Many workplaces pay digitally, and digital transactions feel natural to them.
“Homeownership Isn’t That Hard”
Baby Boomers often express frustration when younger generations claim that homeownership is unattainable. After all, many Boomers could afford homes in their 20s. The National Association of Realtors’ 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers report shows that the median age of first-time homebuyers has increased to 38.
What they may not realize is that real estate prices have skyrocketed relative to wages. Younger generations are not only contending with higher costs but also student loan debt and stagnant wages, which weren’t as prevalent during the Boomers’ youth.
“Young People Don’t Stay in One Job”
Boomers grew up in a time when staying loyal to one company often resulted in steady promotions and a dependable pension. Changing jobs too often was seen as a red flag.
However, Millennials and Gen Z face a gig economy and corporate environments offering fewer long-term benefits. Switching jobs is now viewed as a means to secure better pay and opportunities rather than a sign of instability.
“Why Do You Need Therapy?”
For many Boomers, therapy was either stigmatized or considered a “last resort” for serious mental health conditions. Self-reliance was highly valued.
Younger generations, by contrast, grew up in an era where discussions of mental health are more open. An American Psychiatric Association survey has found that Gen Zs are more likely to have received treatment or gone to therapy (37 percent) compared to Baby Boomers (22 percent).
Therapy is viewed as a proactive approach to maintaining emotional well-being rather than something to hide.
“People Are Too Sensitive These Days”
Boomers sometimes find today’s cultural shifts puzzling, especially with the heightened awareness of diversity, inclusion, and mental health.
Younger generations, shaped by social media and societal progress, view this sensitivity as a means of holding individuals accountable. To them, adapting language and behavior to avoid harm is a natural part of societal evolution.
“What Happened to Real Music?”
Baby Boomers often reminisce about the music of their youth, often emphasizing bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, or Fleetwood Mac. What they see as art, younger generations may find dated. However, we can’t blame the boomers, as a study by the National Institutes of Health found that adults remain emotionally invested in the music they listened to preferentially in late adolescence and early adulthood.
Meanwhile, younger people see value in their music, which Boomers might consider overly produced or reliant on technology. To younger generations, every era has its music, and theirs celebrates innovation.
“They’re Canceling Everything”
Boomers often express frustrations about cancel culture, struggling to understand how past behaviors or opinions can lead to present-day repercussions.
Younger generations tend to view cancel culture as a way to hold people accountable, fostering a more responsible and equitable society. They may see it as a necessary evolution in societal norms.
“Why Get Coffee Every Day?”
Boomers understand the virtues of delayed gratification. Small luxury items, such as a daily coffee shop latte, may be viewed as wasteful.
However, for Millennials and Gen Z, coffee runs aren’t just about coffee; they’re a ritual and sometimes a form of self-care. It’s less about the expense and more about reclaiming joy in their day-to-day lives. A study by Drive Research found that 51% of people purchase coffee from a coffee shop at least once a week.
“Can’t You Fix That Yourself?”
Baby Boomers were often raised with a do-it-yourself mentality, fixing appliances or tinkering with cars in their free time.
Younger generations, growing up in an era of specialization, often rely on experts for repairs and maintenance. This isn’t necessarily a lack of independence; rather, it’s a shift in how people allocate their time and resources.
“Social Media Is Ruining Everything”
Baby Boomers often view social media as disruptive, flooding their lives with distractions and falsehoods. To them, it’s a step away from genuine living.
Younger generations see social media differently.
While they acknowledge its challenges, it also provides professional opportunities, builds communities, and gives marginalized voices a platform. An analysis by Kepios reveals that as of April 2025, there are approximately 5.31 billion social media users worldwide, accounting for approximately 64.7% of the global population.
“Nobody Knows How to Write Letters Anymore”
For Boomers, handwritten notes were a heartfelt form of communication, symbolizing effort and care.
While younger generations share feelings electronically, digitally sent GIFs, emojis, and texts have become modern equivalents of handwritten expressions.
“Why Do You Need a Side Hustle?”
Although 24% of baby boomers reported having a side hustle, the idea of having multiple streams of income is perplexing for some Boomers, who may question why a full-time job isn’t enough.
Younger generations, contending with rising living costs, see side hustles as both a financial necessity and a creative outlet.
“Everyone’s Always on Vacation”
Baby Boomers often view frequent travel as indulgent or excessive. For them, vacations were planned sparingly.
For Millennials and Gen Z, however, experiences like travel hold more value than material possessions. Many prioritize “living in the moment” over long-term saving.
“Why Do Kids Get Participation Trophies?”
Participation trophies are a particularly sore point for some Boomers, who argue they diminish the value of competition. In fact, 57 percent of Americans think only the winning players should receive them. 40 percent say all kids on a sport team should receive a trophy for their participation.
Younger generations argue that these trophies promote effort and build confidence, emphasizing teamwork over winning.
“What Do You Even Do on TikTok?”
For Boomers, TikTok can seem like an endless stream of pointless videos. For Millennials and Gen Z, TikTok is more than entertainment.
It’s an information hub, a showcase for creativity, and sometimes even a career platform.
Key Takeaways
This list of grievances, while often lighthearted, speaks to a deeper truth about cross-generational divides. Boomers and younger generations experience the world through vastly different lenses, shaped by their unique historical, economic, and technological circumstances.
But growth lies in understanding. When Boomers and younger people take the time to listen to each other’s perspectives, they’re likely to discover shared values behind differing behaviors. Ultimately, every generation has something invaluable to offer.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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