It’s easy to poke fun at generational differences, but every now and then, boomers say something that makes younger people stop and go, “Actually… fair enough.”
While some phrases might feel outdated on the surface, there’s often a nugget of wisdom underneath that still hits home for Gen Z, even if they won’t always admit it. After all, boomers aren’t all old and out of touch. They’ve got a lot of life experience that makes them worth listening to rather than automatically dismissed all the time.
1. “Don’t believe everything you see on the internet.”
It might sound like an obvious warning these days, but boomers were saying it long before social media algorithms took over. Honestly, they’ve got a point. Between AI-generated nonsense, filtered realities, and misinformation that spreads like wildfire, questioning what you see online has never been more important.
Gen Z might have grown up online, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to falling for a polished post or a viral half-truth. This is a reminder to stay sharp and keep a bit of healthy scepticism, even if it’s coming from someone who still uses Facebook to comment in all caps.
2. “Money doesn’t grow on trees.”
It’s the kind of thing boomers said while turning off lights or sighing over electricity bills, but it still holds up, especially when everything costs more and salaries haven’t exactly kept up. Gen Z knows all too well that managing money isn’t easy in today’s economy.
While the delivery might feel a bit scolding, the principle is spot on. Budgeting, being mindful of spending, and making smart choices are more relevant than ever. Gen Z might just say it with a spreadsheet and a side of TikTok budgeting tips instead.
3. “You can’t always get what you want.”
At first glance, it sounds like a dream-killer, but beneath the bluntness is a valuable reminder that life won’t always go your way, and that’s okay. Whether it’s not landing a job, missing out on something, or things just not going to plan, resilience is key.
Gen Z, like every generation, is figuring out how to navigate a world full of curveballs. This phrase is a simple way of saying, “Keep going, even when it’s not perfect,” and that kind of mindset is still very much needed, even if it’s wrapped in a more motivational quote nowadays.
4. “If you’re going to do something, do it properly.”
There’s something to be said for taking pride in your work, whether it’s a uni project, a side hustle, or even tidying your space. Boomers grew up being told to do things well the first time, and that attention to detail still resonates when you’re trying to build something that lasts.
Gen Z values efficiency, sure, but they also care about quality and impact. This saying isn’t about perfectionism; it’s about effort. And when you’re pouring your energy into something that matters to you, doing it properly just feels right.
5. “You won’t get anywhere without hard work.”
This one might sound old-school, but it’s still true. In a world where success stories often look instant (thanks, social media), it’s a solid reminder that most wins are built on consistent effort behind the scenes. Even content creators and influencers know the grind is real.
Gen Z isn’t afraid of working hard; they just want to do it on their terms. This phrase still makes sense, as long as it comes with an understanding that hard work should lead to something meaningful, not just burnout or over-delivering for crumbs.
6. “You don’t need to share everything.”
Coming from a generation that prized privacy, this might sound like a dig at oversharing, but it also hits a nerve. With social media becoming a second skin, the idea that not everything needs to be posted actually resonates more than people expect.
Gen Z knows the value of digital boundaries. Many are already opting for private accounts, close-friend lists, or stepping away from the spotlight altogether. The idea of keeping some things for yourself—your wins, your plans, your emotions—is quietly making a comeback.
7. “Learn a trade, you’ll always have work.”
Boomers have long championed the stability of trades, and with rising uni fees and job insecurity, this advice is starting to make a lot more sense. Electricians, plumbers, welders—these roles are essential, well-paid, and in high demand.
Gen Z is increasingly open to alternative career paths, and many are realising that skilled trades offer security, flexibility, and pride in your work without the burden of student debt. It’s a hands-on route that’s gaining quiet respect again.
8. “Talk to people face-to-face.”
While digital communication is second nature to Gen Z, the value of real human connection hasn’t disappeared. Boomers grew up chatting over tea or hashing things out in person, and there’s something refreshing about that, especially in a world full of unread messages and ghosted conversations.
Sometimes, putting the phone down and having a proper talk clears the air faster than any text ever could. Gen Z isn’t ditching tech, but they do recognise the value in showing up, making eye contact, and having honest chats without hiding behind a screen.
9. “Don’t get into debt if you can help it.”
Considering how much debt boomers took on to get homes or build businesses, this one feels a little ironic, but it’s still solid advice. Credit card debt, loans, and buy-now-pay-later schemes can spiral quickly, especially for people just starting out financially.
Gen Z is increasingly debt-conscious, opting for budgeting apps, side hustles, and even delaying major purchases. The fear of debt is real, and rightfully so. This old warning isn’t out of touch at all. It just needs to come with empathy for the economic reality younger generations face.
10. “Always have a backup plan.”
Boomers loved a Plan B, and while Gen Z is all about going for their goals, having a safety net never hurt. Whether it’s a side hustle, savings account, or second route to a dream job, having options keeps you grounded when life gets weird.
This mindset isn’t about settling; it’s about security. The world’s unpredictable, jobs come and go, and industries change fast. Knowing you’ve got something else to fall back on can offer serious peace of mind, even if your main plan’s still the dream.
11. “Fix it instead of throwing it away.”
What once sounded like pure frugality is now being echoed in sustainability circles. Gen Z is increasingly aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion, tech waste, and disposable everything. Suddenly, the boomer approach to mending clothes or repairing appliances seems… responsible.
It’s not just about saving money; it’s about valuing your stuff and reducing waste. Learning to sew, upcycle, or do basic repairs has quietly become cool again, and this old-school mindset fits right into the modern movement toward conscious consumption.
12. “You don’t have to be the best at everything.”
This one hits differently when you’ve grown up in a world full of comparison and constant performance. Boomers might’ve said it to take the pressure off, but it’s even more relevant in a culture where everything’s about numbers, likes, and algorithms.
Gen Z is slowly shifting toward balance, authenticity, and mental health over hustle. The idea that it’s okay to try, to learn, and to simply enjoy something without needing to be amazing at it is refreshing. Sometimes, “good enough” really is enough, and that’s something everyone needs to hear.
