Every generation loves to roll their eyes at the one before them — it’s basically a rite of passage.
In other words, it’s no surprise that Gen Z has plenty to say about outdated boomer takes on life. But while some advice is stuck in the past, not all of it deserves to be thrown out completely. Hidden among the lectures about “hard work” and “kids these days” are some surprisingly useful life lessons. In fact, these pieces of boomer wisdom might actually be worth keeping around.
1. “You won’t always love your job, and that’s okay.”
Gen Z is all about finding fulfilling work, but the truth is, not every job is going to spark joy. Some days will feel like a grind, and sometimes you just have to stick it out for a pay cheque. That doesn’t mean you should stay in a miserable job forever, but expecting work to always be fun isn’t realistic either. Older generations understood that sometimes, you work because you need to, whether it’s to gain experience, pay the bills, or keep the lights on while figuring out your next move. The trick is finding a balance between survival and long-term goals.
2. “Live below your means.”
Nobody wants to hear financial advice from people who bought houses for the price of a modern-day used car. But the core message of spending less than you earn is still solid advice. Debt piles up fast, and financial freedom gives you way more options in life. Even if the cost of living is a whole different game now, being mindful about money will always be valuable. Avoiding unnecessary expenses and saving where you can still makes a huge difference in the long run.
3. “Pick up the phone sometimes.”
Texting and voice notes are convenient, but some conversations just work better over the phone. Whether it’s resolving a misunderstanding, catching up with family, or even job networking, a call can get things done faster. Some things don’t translate well through text, and tone gets lost way too easily. While no one’s saying you have to turn into a serial caller, knowing when to just pick up the phone can make life a lot easier. And yes, older people love a good phone chat, but sometimes, they’re onto something.
4. “Fix it instead of replacing it.”
Fast fashion, cheap furniture, and constant upgrades have made replacing things way too normal. But older generations grew up in a time where fixing things was just part of life. Whether it’s mending clothes, repairing appliances, or getting a few more years out of a laptop, knowing how to fix things saves money and reduces waste. Learning basic repair skills, like sewing a button, unclogging a drain, or troubleshooting tech, can save a lot of time and hassle. Not everything needs to be thrown away just because it’s slightly broken.
5. “A handshake still says a lot about a person.”
Okay, maybe handshakes aren’t the ultimate personality test boomers think they are, but first impressions do matter. Whether it’s a job interview or meeting someone important, confidence and body language say a lot. A weak, disinterested greeting can make you seem uninvested, while a strong introduction leaves a lasting impression. You shouldn’t be crushing someone’s hand, but you should show up with presence. The way you carry yourself in new situations can open (or close) doors before you even say a word.
6. “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Scams, fake opportunities, and sketchy online deals are more common than ever. While older generations dealt with dodgy door-to-door salesmen, Gen Z faces influencer scams, fake investment schemes, and “get rich quick” opportunities on every corner of the internet. Boomers weren’t wrong to be sceptical of things that sound suspiciously easy or overpromised. A little caution can go a long way in avoiding financial and emotional disasters.
7. “You don’t have to share everything online.”
Social media makes it easy to overshare, but not every thought, frustration, or life update needs to be broadcasted. Boomers may not understand the digital world fully, but they do know that privacy matters. Once something is out there, it’s hard to take back. Being mindful of what you post can save you from unnecessary drama, regret, or even professional consequences down the line. Some moments are better kept personal, and some opinions don’t need a public audience.
8. “Good manners will get you far.”
Being polite isn’t about being old-fashioned; it’s about how you make people feel. Simple things like saying thank you, holding the door open, or respecting personal space make a big difference. It’s not about being overly formal, just treating people with basic decency. People remember how you make them feel, and good manners can take you further than you’d think. They cost nothing but can leave a lasting positive impression.
9. “Keep an emergency fund.”
Money struggles look different now, but the need for an emergency fund hasn’t changed. Whether it’s a medical bill, car trouble, or losing a job, having even a small cushion can keep a bad situation from becoming a disaster. Older generations knew that unexpected expenses are just part of life. Even if saving is tough, setting aside a little at a time can make a difference. Financial security isn’t about being rich; it’s about being prepared.
10. “Don’t burn bridges.”
Quitting a job dramatically, cutting off people without thinking it through, or airing out workplace drama online might feel good in the moment, but it can backfire. The world is smaller than it seems, and you never know when you’ll cross paths with someone again. Boomers understood that keeping things professional, even when leaving a situation, can save headaches later. That doesn’t mean tolerating toxic situations, but exiting with grace is a skill that can pay off in the long run. You never know when an old connection could open a new door.
11. “Hard work doesn’t guarantee success, but laziness guarantees failure.”
Boomers sometimes act like hard work alone will solve everything, which isn’t exactly true. But there’s no denying that putting in effort increases your chances of success. Nothing happens without some level of action. The world isn’t as simple as “work hard, and you’ll get what you want,” but sitting around waiting for success definitely isn’t the answer either. Hard work might not be a guarantee, but it does stack the odds in your favour.
12. “Cook at home — it’s cheaper and healthier.”
With food delivery apps making everything so easy, it’s tempting to rely on takeout, but cooking at home saves a ton of money. Plus, you have way more control over what you’re eating. Boomers may not have had Uber Eats, but they did understand the value of a home-cooked meal. Even if you’re not a master chef, learning a few go-to meals can help cut costs and keep you healthier. It’s one of those life skills that pays off in more ways than one.
13. “Buy quality over quantity.”
Fast fashion and cheap products make it easy to buy more, but older generations knew that sometimes, it’s worth paying more for something that lasts. A well-made jacket, good shoes, or sturdy furniture can last years, saving you money in the long run. It’s not about buying expensive things just for the sake of it, but about being mindful of long-term value. Investing in quality over constant replacements can actually be the cheaper option.
14. “Some things really do get better with time.”
Patience isn’t easy, especially when you want results now. But some things like healing from heartbreak, career growth, and personal confidence just take time. Boomers understood that life has seasons, and not everything needs to be rushed. It’s frustrating to wait, but some of the best things in life happen when they’re meant to. Not everything is instant, and that’s okay.
