Ever get a text from your parents that sounds like it came straight out of a sitcom from the 80s? Language is a living thing, constantly evolving, and what was considered a boss saying back in the day can land with a thud for Gen Z. Here’s a breakdown of some boomer phrases that make Gen Z want to reach for the emoji dictionary:
1. “Just walk in there and ask for the manager!”
This battle cry might have worked in the days of landlines and Rolodexes, but in today’s digital world, waltzing into a manager’s office is a recipe for wasted time. Emails and online forms are king now, saving everyone a face-to-face showdown.
2. “You kids these days have it too easy!”
This one stings a bit. The job market is brutal, the cost of living is skyrocketing, and climate change is a looming threat. Gen Z may have some killer tech skills, but “easy” isn’t exactly the word they’d use to describe their reality.
3. “There’s an app for that!”
There probably is, but Gen Z is all about efficiency. Sure, there might be an app to help you tie your shoes (because that’s a thing), but sometimes the simplest solution is the best.
4. “Get a real job!”
Being a YouTuber, social media influencer, or even a pro gamer can be a legit career path these days. The definition of “real work” has shifted. As long as you’re bringing in the bacon (or the tofu crumbles), who cares what your job title is?
5. “You need to toughen up!”
Mental health awareness is a big deal for Gen Z. Bottling up emotions isn’t cool anymore. It’s okay to not be okay, and there’s no shame in seeking help when you need it.
6. “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps!”
Student loan debt, a tough job market, and skyrocketing rents make this saying feel a bit out of touch. Success in today’s world requires a whole lot more than just grit. Sometimes, a little systemic change wouldn’t hurt.
7. “What’s wrong with a good old-fashioned handshake?”
In a world of social distancing and online interactions, a handshake might feel a tad outdated. A friendly wave or a fist bump gets the job done just fine these days.
8. “Back in my day…”
That good ol’ “back in my day” speech. Every generation has its own set of challenges. Maybe instead of dwelling on the past, we can all work together to build a brighter future, right?
9. “Dress for success!”
This piece of advice might have held weight back when a sharp suit was your ticket to a good job. But Gen Z prioritizes comfort and expressing themselves through their clothes. A dope outfit with personality (consider fresh sneakers and a graphic tee) can turn heads at an interview – and maybe even land you the job.
10. “The customer is always right!”
Customer service is still crucial, but Gen Z believes in mutual respect. Sure, keeping customers happy is important, but that doesn’t mean tolerating rudeness. Customers who mistreat service staff may now find themselves called out online.
11. “Get off my lawn!”
This grumpy yell might have been effective during the neighborhood watch era, but the rise of online anonymity has emboldened some people. Trolling and cyberbullying are serious issues Gen Z is actively fighting against. Kindness and respect, both online and off, are way cooler than yelling at kids.
12. “Act your age!”
Age is just a number, right? Gen Z celebrates individuality and self-expression. Whether you’re rocking a purple mohawk at 60 or dominating the chess club at 10, you do you! There’s no rulebook on how to act based on your age.
13. “Practice makes perfect!”
While Gen Z understands the value of practice, they’re also big on progress, not perfection. Making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growing. It’s all about picking yourself up, dusting yourself off, and keeping on moving forward.
14. “Everything happens for a reason!”
Sometimes, things just happen, and that’s okay. Gen Z isn’t afraid to acknowledge that life can be random and unpredictable. Not every situation needs a grand explanation or hidden meaning.
15. “Just be yourself!”
This might seem like an evergreen piece of advice, but Gen Z takes it a step further. Social media can create pressure to be this flawless, “perfect” version of yourself. Gen Z is all about embracing your true, authentic self, even if it’s a little strange. Because hey, weird is awesome!
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