It seems more common these days to see generations pitted against each other. Whether it’s Boomers criticizing the incessant tech habits of Gen Zs or Millennials spouting the archaic structures of Boomer life, we rarely see them celebrating one another. That’s about to change, as Gen Zs have embraced a sufficient number of Boomer attitudes, contrary to popular belief.
Work Ethic
Boomers have built a solid reputation for their strong work ethic. Work-life for them involved long hours and rigid dedication to their jobs. You might be shocked to hear that many Gen Zs admire this commitment and recognize the value of hard work in achieving success. How else could they be winning entrepreneurs?
Financial Wisdom
Boomers were the original saving generation, squirreling their spare cents aside instead of spending them. They seem to have monopolized managing finances, budgeting, and investing. It’s no wonder that Gen Zs respect their practical advice on saving money, especially in an out-of-control consumer society where you can spend money with a simple swipe. Someone needed to guide them.
DIY Skills
No one does DIY like the Boomers. They were the original leaky faucet fixers who relied on no one but their expertise to get things done. Younger generations have gotten lazier with their need for fast fixes, often turning to YouTube tutorials to guide them through. It’s easy to see why Gen Zs are applauding Boomer's efforts. They just applied a bit of common sense.
Adaptability
There might be a million stereotypes about Boomers and their average tech abilities, but most Boomers have adapted pretty well to societal changes. Their keen willingness to learn new things and stay on trend has won Gen Z’s respect. See, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Boomers cry out for better tech at work, so don’t believe the hype.
Activism
It might be hard to believe for some, but Boomers were at the forefront of significant social movements in the '60s and '70s. They were part of numerous well-documented radical liberation movements that Gen Zs have come to respect. They’re now seeing them as pioneers who paved the way for modern social justice efforts.
Gardening
Many Boomers have a deep respect for nature, and they’re huge lovers of activities like gardening. Whether it’s owning an allotment or planting seeds at the right time of the year, Boomers have the know-how. Gen Zs, who are passionate about environmentalism, loves this commitment to preserving the planet.
Storytelling
Boomers were the masters of bedtime stories for their young ones, a routine that seems to have been replaced with tech time for many younger generations. They still have a knack for storytelling, sharing fascinating tales from their youth and providing historical context. Gen Z loves learning about different eras and experiences. It teaches them that they don't need a smartphone for everything.
Resourcefulness
In an age where technology and machines do everything for us, it’s no wonder that younger generations have become lazy. Growing up without the convenience of modern technology, Boomers learned to be resourceful and make the most of downtime. Gen Z respects this ingenuity and is constantly in awe of the ability to cope without a smartphone.
Cooking Skills
Boomers have impressive culinary skills, whether it's home-cooked meals or baking. There’s less need to cook these days with food prep companies and cheap takeouts, but the Gen Zs who choose to be self-sufficient can only admire and lean into this ability.
Family Values
Boomers were part of a generation who prioritized family and community, instilling strong values in their children and grandchildren. Gen Z has revolutionized the way they see family values, often choosing friendships over traditional nuclear families. Those who do embrace family value the bond that Boomers have forged.
Tenacity
Boomers have often been criticized for calling younger generations ‘snowflakes,’ and while they’re not always justified, they have their reasons. Boomers grafted in tough jobs, many of those manual, to afford their first homes. They weren’t afraid of hard work, a fact that they love to share with younger generations. With numerous economic downturns and societal changes, Boomers have had to adapt for decades. This sense of spirit has earned Gen Z’s admiration.
Home Buying
Gen Zs are facing exorbitant housing costs in the modern era, with many unable to afford their first homes. Boomers can relate; they lived through the Great Recession, where buying was impossible. Gen Zs are learning the ebb and flow effect of real estate from Boomers and can take comfort in knowing that things will change as they have historically. Boomers are proving to be the perfect mentors.
Fashion Trends
Believe it or not, some Boomers were the ultimate fashionistas in their earlier days. Between the Swinging '60s and peace-loving '70s, they were part of one of the greatest fashion movements of all time. Gen Zs are in awe of these now vintage pieces, jumping onto preloved sites to grab a statement piece.
Music Influence
The Boomers gave us rock, disco, and classic pop. Some of the greatest bands of all time came out of this music-heavy era, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Queen; we could go on. Gen Zs, along with other generations, still rank Boomer music as the best and often incorporate these genres into their playlists. Gen Zs don’t have nearly as many rich choices with modern music offerings.
Craftsmanship
Boomers still appreciate high-quality, handmade goods, so you’ll often see this generation at a flea market with their arty creations. Gen Zs often head straight online to buy their favorite items, so it’s no surprise that they can admire the effort put into their parent's craftsmanship.
Travel Stories
Many Boomers have traveled extensively and have incredible stories and tips to share. Most Gen Zs have yet to encounter different countries, so they’re soaking up the experiences of their elders before they’re able to enter the world of travel.
Voting
Boomers have always been the predominant voters, a concept that hasn’t always been favored by certain political parties seeking more diverse followers. With their passion for world matters and well-documented activism, Gen Zs are the first generation to give the Boomers a run for their money in the voting stakes. They know their politics and they’re not prepared to sabotage their chance to change their country.
Individuality
Boomers were always known to embrace their sense of identity, whether it was style, music taste, or challenging the status quo. They weren’t followers or conformists and embraced individuality. Gen Zs are passionate about making immense societal changes, from alternative ways of working to gender identity, and they only have the Boomers to look up to.
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