As a millennial child of two boomer parents, I’ll give them credit for giving me great advice about some things in my life. They’ve always supported my career changes and aspirations. But they’ve also given their fair share of outdated suggestions…often for things I didn’t even ask for input on.
Some say boomers can be super insecure about how fast the world changes. And sure, they mean well, but that doesn’t always translate to helpful guidance for us millennials. So, when they start sharing unwanted guidance, we just nod and smile.
I’m sure we all have wild stories about the worst boomer advice we’ve received! Here are twelve cringe-worthy nuggets of wisdom from boomers that I bet you can relate to.
Suck It Up, Kid. It’s Your Own Fault.
If you’re a millennial, you’ve probably talked with your parents about those participation trophies. Did we make up these prizes as kids so we could get them when we lost? Nope! Yet, when we point out that their generation invented them, somehow, the blame still falls on us.
It’s a classic case of the “kids these days” trope, where older generations critique younger ones for so-called flaws. Some boomer parents don’t seem to get today’s pressures—higher competition, economic stress, and real mental health struggles.
It’s Pointless to Use the Internet as a Means of Finding Jobs
When we’re looking for a job, baby boomers say, “Just go in and fill out an application.” They’d even tell us the Internet is a waste for job hunting. But even 15 years ago, almost every job had switched to online applications!
The funny thing is that if you go to apply in person, they just direct you to apply online. And if you directly call to follow up, they’re annoyed!
Babies Just Need Love, Not Money
It still blows my mind how some boomer parents try to convince their millennial kids to have babies with the line, “Babies just need love, not money.” Really? That just builds resentment—it ignores the real costs of raising a kid today.
First off, love doesn’t buy diapers or groceries! You can’t just come home from the hospital saying, “Oh no, I can’t afford diapers.” But I like to think millennials know the rule: no grandkids until there’s a steady job, a decent paycheck, and way less student debt.
Just Fall Into a Job and Hope for the Best
Imagine a guest lecturer in a class saying he stumbled into his career right after college, not really knowing what to do—just took a chance and, bam, two years later, he’s CEO. It’s almost like he’s telling a room full of grad students, “Hey, just get lucky, like I did!”
Honestly, that sounds like someone who didn’t have much to lose—maybe not wealthy, but comfortable enough to take big risks. The job market is way different now than it used to be. These days, executive roles need real qualifications, experience, and often an advanced degree.
Computer Scientists Don’t Make Good Money
I get it. Older generations, especially Boomers, grew up when technology wasn’t everywhere. That’s probably why some boomers advised millennials against computer science, suggesting other engineering fields instead. They thought CS jobs didn’t pay well or weren’t a good fit.
But here’s the truth: in the U.S., the median salary for computer scientists is $136,620! The lowest 10% earn about $78,190, while the top 10% make about $232,000. CS is a solid major with plenty of job options and specializations. Seriously, why take tech advice from people who aren’t into tech?
Buy a House as Young as Possible to Pay it Off Quickly
It might not sound like bad advice at first, but have you ever heard a Boomer say, “Your generation doesn’t get that you should buy a house young to pay it off quickly”? That’s like that boomer who leaves an angry comment online, scolding young people for splurging on Starbucks coffee instead of saving for a home.
The reality is millennials earn 20% less than baby boomers did at the same age. House prices shot up 10%, but wages haven’t budged. For many millennials, owning a home feels like an impossible dream, especially with their heavy student debt.
Just Go To College Even If You Don’t Know What You Want To Do
Wow, what a plan! It’s a shame some parents push their kids to college without a clear direction. This often leaves students feeling terrible about wasting thousands of dollars and stressed over major requirements they can’t meet, all while struggling to figure out their career path. The worst part? Many end up dropping out.
Sure, this approach worked for some, but it’s unrealistic to think that just having any degree guarantees a good job. It’s not that simple!
McDonald’s Isn’t a Real Job
It’s frustrating how some people say things like, “You don’t deserve a livable wage at McDonald’s—get a real job,” or “What, are you too good to work at McDonald’s? Grow up and stop being entitled.” We need to call out those who insist their kids should go to college because they think McDonald’s jobs are only for uneducated people.
McDonald’s is just as legitimate as any other service job. It’s the same people who claim being a YouTuber isn’t a real job. If it pays the bills, then it absolutely is a job!
Just Get a Job. Tons of Places are Hiring.
It’s easier said than done. Those boomers probably haven’t faced the struggle of applying all day without getting a single call back. They think it’s as simple as chatting with the hiring manager to land an interview.
Of course, they only have the best intentions, but the job market is super competitive now. Many positions require specific skills and qualifications, so “getting a job” no longer guarantees a steady income. Plus, online applications and automated hiring systems have changed how we find and apply for jobs.
Don’t Take the Job Unless it Gives Four Weeks’ Paid Vacation a Year
Saying no to a job unless it gives you four weeks of vacation a year is unrealistic, especially for younger workers starting their careers.
In the U.S., we don’t have guaranteed sick or vacation days by law, and many companies offer the bare minimum. The average vacation time here is only about ten days. We’re not in Sweden, where employees get four weeks of continuous holiday leave during the summer!
You’ll Feel Different When They’re Your Own Children
While many boomer parents are becoming more supportive of millennials who choose not to have kids, some still insist they’ll feel different when they have their own. This advice often comes from privilege, as these parents had positive experiences with parenthood and overlooked the unique challenges faced by those who don’t want children.
Not everyone wants to be a parent, and respecting individual choices is important. Parenthood is a huge commitment that takes time, energy, and money. Millennials know it’s not a decision to take lightly or toss aside if things don’t go as planned.
Don’t Be So Entitled
Some boomer bosses call millennials entitled, claiming we think we’re special and above criticism. Honestly, it gets old hearing that we need to stop being entitled. The older generation often believes success requires relentless sacrifice and thinks millennials aren’t willing to give enough to earn it.
That couldn’t be more wrong! Millennials grew up in an era of support and connection, which has empowered us in many ways. We’re not avoiding hard work; we just have a different approach to achieving success.
Source: Reddit
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